Thank you Leigh for sharing you story and adding to this discussion.  I learn from each person's post, and I especially love your phrase "dialogue constructively about difference."  I believe that this is difficult and must be approached with openness and willingness to listen.  I struggle with this in class as we discuss difficult issues together.  My students are nearly adults and already have strong opinions about many issues.  My hope is indeed that we can dialogue constructively, just as we have done here, knowing it is not necesary to agree with every person, but only to listen and honestly consider another point of view.

My friend Lali once mentioned that she has respect for people that can disagree with her intelligently. I could not agree with her more.

Thank you Leigh.