If I have to hear one more differing opinion,
I will listen.
I will take in the opposing views
I will consider them
if they are not identical
to the many other differing opinions
I have heard throughout these trying times
and I will likely discount them
for I am not so easily swayed.

But I will go so far
as to let someone have her say
so I can have a better understanding
of him
and myself
and I will use that understanding
to add to my personal map of the universe.

I am small.
I am parochial.
I argue often
and aggressively
and will not accept other opinions at first
but
if I refuse to hear them
stupid and ignorant as they are
then I am stupid
and ignorant
and wrong
and will remain small and parochial forever.

So though I hate the different opinions
I will listen to them
until you give me enough reason
to abusively flick them off.