It goes without saying that our nation is facing division and often that division becomes harmful and hurtful (and even violent). As a community and society, we can benefit from celebrating the things we have in common rather than focusing on our differences. We can do so by recognizing our shared humanity. Politics are important, but they don't need to divide or destroy us or ruin a family gathering time. While we can disagree on policies, we can do so with grace. There's never a place for hateful rhetoric or actions.

Recently, my colleague, Council Member Shaunna Elias and I, made a short video to discuss this very topic. We shared how on paper, we couldn't look more different - grew up different places, have different experiences, different voting records. Yet, there are many things we share in common - both moms, both love our community, both share many other things we both like and enjoy. Despite our differences, we can be friends and respect each other. Check out our video on Instagram.

 It's important that we learn to disagree better. Let's start locally to show others how we can build on our common humanity and discuss our differences with respect. We will find solutions when we work together as a community for those things we all appreciate and share in common. #disagreebetter