While we are granted the freedom of speech in America, we often neglect the power of listening that is entrusted unto us in conjunction with this inalienable right. Because there is such a vast difference of opinion in America, it is important for us to listen to one another (even if we don’t agree) to fully shape our own worldview.

Today, it has become sort of a “norm” to alienate ourselves from those who do not agree with us. The rift between political parties and opinions has become gaping, and tensions remain high between Americans. We utilize our freedom of speech to bring forth our opinions, but we sometimes fail to recognize that others’ opinions hold just as much validity as ours, even if we do not necessarily agree with them.

While others’ opinions may not be particularly valid to our situations, they hold just as much validity to the other person because similarly to ourselves, they have shaped their worldview to form their own opinions.

Simply put, with the freedom of speech comes the power of listening. It is up to us to use our listening skills for good to ensure others that their opinions are being heard, and they are not using their freedom of speech in vain.