Compassion vs. standards

I have a philosophy that helps shape my behavior: On the issues have standards.  With people have compassion.

Not everyone will share my opinions and perspectives—yes, even the ones I hold closest to my heart.  In fact, to put it the exact opposite way—other people have opinions, perspectives, and beliefs that they hold dear to their heart… that I don’t share.  

That’s actually quite beautiful. 

It’s important to know what my standards are. But it’s just as important to lead with compassion when those standards aren’t shared.  

There’s a lot we can learn from each other when we don’t lay out the pre-requisite that we agree on everything first.