I have and I will always work to promote a civil public discourse.
Ideal conversation must be an exchange of thought, and not, as many of those who worry most about their shortcomings believe, an eloquent exhibition of wit or oratory.
The pith of conversation does not consist in exhibiting your own superior knowledge on matters of small consequence, but in enlarging, improving and correcting the information you possess by the authority of others.
A conversation is a dialogue, not a monologue. That's why there are so few good conversations: due to scarcity, two intelligent talkers seldom meet.
Before you decide to have an argument, think about what you really want to accomplish. Do you just want to let your feelings out, or is there a point you are trying to make? What is it?
Despite the occasional high decibel level, 'The Group' is not a shout fest. I don't simply want panelists with opposing opinions trying to out-shout one another.
The best that we can do for one another is to exchange our thoughts freely; and that, after all, is about all.
Sure, I've met with people I don't agree with.
I have always endeavoured to listen to what each and every person in a discussion had to say before venturing my own opinion.
Unfortunately, I am not the typical, old-school, 'Yes dear, you're right,' just to get out of a situation. I am more of the type to work it out until you think I'm right or I think you're right.
Debates must take place in an atmosphere of courtesy.
I want to create an informed and respectful dialogue about the opportunities and challenges facing our veterans.
Free speech is one of our fundamental principles and it's pretty hard to speak freely when people are yelling at you when it's your turn. That would never be allowed in a classroom or in any other kind of meeting.
You don't have to wait until people say they accept everything you say until you are actually prepared to sit down and discuss matters with them.
You can talk about anything if you go about it the right way, which is never malicious.
But be that as it may, I think it is more respectful to you that I should speak to you upon and do my best to interest you in the subject which has occupied me, and in which I am myself most interested.
When I've had a talk with someone, I like them to leave unconfused. No need for contention.
