By Andy Hale

It is election week. The tension is palpable. The stress is high. The division is evident.

Whatever happens on Tuesday night, and more likely over the coming weeks, Americans face a new chapter. The unease by which we look at this next chapter, no matter who is elected, is that we have so entrenched ourselves into sides. We are burrowed deep, and God only knows what will get us out.

If there were a perfect GIF to show how most people feel about their political opponents, it would be the scene of Lloyd covering his ears, screaming “la-la-la-la,” while Harry yells, “You can’t triple stamp a double stamp.” For academic reference, click here.

We have become so tribal in our political groups that we have made it impossible to allow ourselves to hear the voice, let alone the story of others with whom we do not see eye-to-eye.

“We are in political paralysis because we’ve decided that every issue is existential. This has resulted in the current lack of progress,” said Beth Silvers and Sarah Stewart Holland on the CBF Podcast.

Silvers and Holland are co-hosts of the Pantsuit Politics Podcast, as well as co-authors of the book, I Think You’re Wrong (But I’m Listening): a Guide to Grace-Filled Political Conversations.

We sat down with Beth and Sarah to discuss their journey of coming together from two opposing political persuasions to form healthy conversations. Through their relationship and work, they promote a culture of civility and a broader perspective within our communities.

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Andy Hale is the creator and host of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Podcast. Hale is the senior pastor of University Baptist Church of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, following eight years as the founding pastor of Mosaic Church of Clayton and five years as CBF’s church start specialist. Follow on Twitter @haleandy