Tolerance is often misunderstood as a lack of beliefs or a passive acceptance of all viewpoints. However, true tolerance is about maintaining your beliefs while respecting others who disagree with you. It’s a measure of how your convictions influence your behavior toward those with differing perspectives.
Having strong beliefs is natural and important. They guide our actions and shape our identities. However, when we encounter conflicting views, our response defines our character. Tolerance calls for empathy, understanding, and a willingness to engage respectfully with others, even when we don’t see eye to eye.
A powerful example of tolerance in action is the friendship between U.S. Supreme Court Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia. Despite their starkly different judicial philosophies and frequent disagreements on the bench, Ginsburg and Scalia shared a deep respect and fondness for each other.
Ginsburg, a champion of liberal causes, and Scalia, a staunch conservative, often found themselves on opposite sides of court rulings. Yet, their differences never overshadowed their mutual respect and personal friendship. They bonded over their love for opera, shared family vacations, and often spoke of each other with great admiration.
Ginsburg once said of Scalia, “We are different, yes, but I have a great respect for him and his intellect.” Scalia, in turn, praised Ginsburg’s legal acumen and kindness. Their friendship was a testament to the idea that it’s possible to hold firm beliefs while treating those who disagree with you with respect and kindness.
Here’s an interview “the odd couple” sat for in 2015
In a diverse world, tolerance is essential for harmony. It allows us to coexist peacefully, learn from each other, and grow. By treating those who disagree with us with kindness and respect, we demonstrate the true strength of our convictions. Tolerance isn’t about diluting our beliefs; it’s about showing the humanity within them.
Kenrick Vaz 