"نحن نغير الناس من خلال الحوار وليس من خلال الرقابة"

The essential idea here is pretty straightforward: if we want to influence or change someone's mind, having an open conversation is far more effective than trying to silence them. When we talk to each other, we exchange ideas, learn different perspectives, and grow. On the other hand, if we shut people down or censor them, it usually just leads to resentment and resistance.

Historically, this quote could be tied to various moments in history where dialogue and open conversation paved the way for progress. Think about the civil rights movements, where leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. emphasized the power of peaceful dialogue over violent confrontation. Censorship, by contrast, has often been associated with authoritarian regimes where the suppression of ideas and voices stifles any kind of meaningful progress or understanding.

Let's look at a real-life example to ground this idea. Imagine a community divided over a contentious issue—say, a new policy about a local school's curriculum. One group believes the curriculum needs to include more diverse voices and histories, while another group is wary of changes and wants to stick to the traditional syllabus. If the school board were to simply implement the new curriculum without discussing it with the community, it would likely lead to protests, resentment, and a lot of angry parents. But if they hold open forums, where each side can openly discuss their concerns and listen to each other, they might find common ground. Maybe the traditionalists learn about the importance of inclusivity, and the progressives understand the value of gradual change. Through conversation, they can reach a compromise or at least a better understanding of each other.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by being open to conversations, even when they’re uncomfortable. Invite differing opinions and listen—really listen—to what others have to say. It’s easy to dismiss someone when you don’t agree with them, but shutting them down doesn’t help anyone. Ask questions, seek to understand the other person’s perspective, and share your own views respectfully.

Now, imagine this scenario: You’re at a family dinner, and the topic of climate change comes up. Your uncle is vocal about his skepticism, and you, being a firm believer in the science, feel your blood boiling. You could shut him down, call him ignorant, and end the conversation right there. Or, you could ask him why he feels that way. Maybe he had a bad experience with misinformation, or perhaps he feels overwhelmed by the doom-and-gloom narratives. By having a calm and respectful conversation, you can share your knowledge and maybe, just maybe, provide him with new insights without making him feel attacked.

At the end of the day, changing minds isn’t about winning arguments. It’s about connection, understanding, and the slow, steady work of building bridges through conversation. So next time you’re faced with a differing opinion, take a deep breath and engage. You might be surprised at how much power there is in simply having a conversation.