I'm With You Fellers

Remember the movie, "Oh Brother Where Art Thou"?
It's filled with memorable quotes and anecdotes.
One such scene is when the trio of escaped convicts is arguing about who's going to lead their new gang.
After Everett McGill and Pete Hogwallop both vote for themselves to be the head honcho, they look to Delmar O'Donnell to break the tie.
Delmar considers his options for a moment, looks back and forth at his friends as he's making up his mind, and then decisively exclaims, "Allright....I'm with you fellers".

The question is left hanging in the air, unanswered.
Incredulous looks prevail as the scene goes to black.

Isn't that just like how some of our conflicts & conversations go?
Two sides, both with passionately held idealistic platforms, both convinced they are what's right and best.
Many times we are left in a position to have influence & persuasion.
But we often take the way of Delmar.

Let's choose our words carefully, now.
Where is the safest exit? How can I say something without saying anything?
How can I appear decisive, but also let my friends know that I'm not against them?
Vote independent. Or don't vote at all.
AFTER all, we wouldn't want to offend anyone, now would we?

Passionate belief should come from deep within us.
It should not be swayed by what is popular, cool, or peer-pressured.
We should be able to state our beliefs without forming enemies.
We can be on opposite sides of the fence and still be friendly neighbors.

Why do we feel we have to choose between a mudfight, or a sheepish grin?
Couldn't we just discuss the issues with respect for each other?
I believe it all comes back to the greatest commandment.
Love God, and love people.
Simple concept.
Powerful results.

We don't have to agree on everything.
Our disagreements don't have to divide us.
We've been bound by those chains for far too long.
Which reminds me.....anybody know the way to Wash Hogwallop's place?
He's a blacksmith, and makes a mean horse stew, I wantcha to know.