Challenging views

It has come to my attention that many people confuse a challenge in perspective as an emotional attack. As one who has emotionally defended my egoistic position before, and as one who enjoys an open intellectual discussion that brings to light many different perspectives - I would like to share my observations and perspectives with you. As aware and intelligent beings - i would like to point out the need for critical thinking in approaching subject matter as paramount in creating a discussion that fosters learning and growth. When a person poses a different view that appears to challenge your current position and you react defensively, I challenge you to ask yourself why. What exactly is it that upsets you and why? Was it a personal attack or did you take it as one? Does their perspective tear cracks in the foundation you stand upon, does it rock your system of beliefs, culture, and identity? Personally, I have come to recognize and value the people in my life who continually challenge me with their ideas. Growth occurs when faced with challenges and obstacles, innovations come when pioneers look at problem as an opportunity to create something new, let's not get too comfortable patting each other on the back - just agreeing or staying quiet - let's really communicate and transform, let's dare each other to be open-minded and act on it. Let's not act like awareness/consciousness isn't excruciating. Let's not act like heightened and greater vision only sees positivity, let's get fucking real. Let's have real discussions. Let's have the courage to be wrong and admit it in front of an audience. Let's have discussions with opposing or challenging views without the language of emotional/personal insults and attacks. Let's really get at the root of things and grow together.