The October meeting of Open Table, an interfaith gathering that welcomes the perspectives of all spiritual traditions, featured the thoughts of a visiting Islamic scholar and imam from Australia. It was the kind of stimulating and inspiring exchange that I wish everyone in the world could experience.
Mohamad Abdalla articulated the progressive views of a 21st-century Muslim intellectual and exhibited the compassionate values of a thoughtful humanitarian. Rabbi Peter Schaktman and Sister Joan Chatfield responded with equally thoughtful, insightful comments. Others joined the conversation; everyone left wishing for more time. We sensed a renewed feeling of hopefulness for the resolution of the misunderstandings and conflicts that cause so much unnecessary suffering around the world.
It reminded me of past efforts to bring disparate minds together for some personal, in-depth talking. In the 1980s, Protestant and Catholic youths from Northern Ireland were brought together in a neutral space where they became acquainted and returned home as neighbors rather than enemies. Former President Jimmy Carter initiated similar conversations with world leaders who harbored serious disagreements with each other. If these efforts had been sustained, there might have been some actual resolution.
Continuing conflict should not determine the cessation of talking. We all know from personal experience the importance of talking through our disagreements. When we keep communication open, the problems are solved, and when we stop talking with each other, the problems become worse. It seems like common sense.
-- The Rev. John Heidel is a United Church of Christ minister and a founding member of the Interfaith Alliance of Hawaii.
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