COMMENTARY: We need to focus on our similarities

It often appears as if we live in a divided world. Whether it be television, radio or social media, stories of conflict and division are at the forefront. Every report seemingly draws a line in the sand, asking us to choose a side while the creation of the “us” versus “them” mentality breeds the conflict necessary for the next big news store. And, so the cycle continues.

What this cycle of conflict tells us is that we know so very little about each other. All too often we rely on second hand, impersonal information. We are quick to condemn, quick to judge and so very quick to demonize others. One can certainly fear what one does not understand, but shouldn’t we strive to understand better and overcome our fears?

Rather than focusing on our differences, perhaps we can come together by focusing on our similarities.

I write as chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Interfaith Forum, a 15-year-old organization in the Upstate dedicated to the building of understanding, respect and cooperation among the various faith traditions in our community, our region, our nation and our world.

Interfaith Forum exists for the sole purpose of breaking down the barriers of ignorance that exist between the faith traditions that make up our shared community. Interfaith Forum provides a unique opportunity to come to know and appreciate others who are not of the same faith traditions in our community.

In this regard, the Interfaith Forum is hosting its 8th Annual Dinner Dialogues, a very special evening in which we listen to each other over a meal in a local home.

The concept of dinner dialogues was created at Rice University in Houston, Texas. It is a national movement to advance understanding between faith traditions. Greenville partners with cities across the nation — many on the same evening — each year. Groups of up to 10 people of different faiths or no faith are led by a trained moderator in discussion and sharing over dinner.

Our community is known for being welcoming and friendly to visitors. Please join us in sharing that hospitality with our neighbors here in the Upstate. The evening is Oct. 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sign up by Oct. 7 to reserve your place for this year’s dinner experience.

To register as a participant, host a dinner or for more information, log on to: www.interfaithforum-sc.org/register.

Nick Farr is chairperson of the Interfaith Forum and an attorney at Gallivan, White & Boyd.