I Think You're Wrong (But I'm Listening): A Guide to Grace-Filled Political Conversations

*Updated Review*The first time I read this book, I really loved it. I did still enjoy it the second time around, but the second time I noticed how much religion and faith was discussed, which is not something that resonates with me. No big deal, I glossed over those parts and still loved the rest!I also feel like I struggle more now than ever with giving grace to people who have different opinions on certain issues. I think that their lessons are valuable if the person with a different opinion with you is also willing to approach the conversation in the same way, but it doesn't always feel like that is possible anymore. I think my mood and the state of the world definitely affected my enjoyment the second time around with this one.*First Review*Sarah & Beth from Pantsuit Politics discuss their lives, political views, and how we can have more civil discussions about issues.I think we can all agree that we have, at one time or another, painted the “other side” with a broad brush, making lots of assumptions about who they are as people along the way. This is a gentle and graceful reminder that sometimes we need to step back and really take a hard look at not just issues, but ourselves as well. I generally think of myself as a reasonable person who can see many sides of an issue, even if I still passionately support my beliefs, but this was a good reminder that I can absolutely do better. I highly encourage anyone to read or listen to this book (and their podcast Pantsuit Politics)!

I have been an avid listener of Pantsuit Politics for the last 6 months. I have learned so much from their podcast and jumped at the chance to get their book. I grew up in a small town in the Bible belt. I spent more time in the southern baptist church than my own home. My religion was my lense for all issues. I was a self-proclaimed republican because that's what I was supposed to do and I really liked elephants. But, I had no idea what I was standing for. It was until I got to college and chose to become a Human Relations major (mostly because there was no math involved) that I began to learn about the world outside of my own. I did a complete 180 on my political beliefs and am now a registered Democrat. Fast forward a few years I'm now in a healthy, wonderful, committed relationship with a Republican. This book and their podcast have honestly helped keep our relationship alive. It has helped me see his side of things with eyes of grace instead of through the political lens. I have learned to have better conversations, to listen more, to ask better questions and work towards finding common ground. I cannot thank Beth and Sarah enough for the work they do. They have brought so much hope to my life. This book also has a faith aspect which honestly was difficult for me to handle at first. My faith has shifted just like my politics, but this book was a sweet reminder that grace is not reserved for the church. Grace is a part of every facet of life. It has been extended to me and these women have reminded to me that I can accept that grace and extended to others. Thank you again for all the light you put into the world. You are doing great work that means something to me any many others!

This is a wonderful book. I wish everyone would read it. It is logical, balanced, and filled with pertinent ways to handle political differences. Highly recommended!

Sarah Stewart Holland and Beth Silvers, hosts of the popular Pantsuit Politics podcast, bring their grace-filled political chats to even more people with this book. It’s you’re go-to guide for facing political (or any other) conversations with grace, compassion, and nuance.This is the book we need right now to help bring people together and promote a spirit of respect, compromise, and dignity.The book in a couple sentences: Using examples from their own lives, their friendship, and their podcast, the authors demonstrate the value of engaging in conversations with those who may have differing opinions. They encourage healthy discussions, objective research, a willingness to learn, and a spirit of dignity towards others. Even as they tackle tough topics, their goal is to help readers understand how to have seemingly hard conversations where they can disagree but not dislike others.What I liked most: The book made me think. By sharing two differing opinions in their examples, I understand better what I don’t know. Their honest examples encouraged me to learn more. I love the way they weave real topics into their suggestions. It isn’t preachy (although they do tie in their faith throughout), but there is a clear call for nuance and respect throughout.I might change: Surprisingly, I wanted more about the issues. I know they were examples to help visualize the process but I found myself wanting to learn even more. I am left curious as to how these methods have influenced relationships outside their friendship.A quote to remember: “We must keep politics in perspective. Our government is important, yes, but we don’t have to care about it every minute. Our values are certainly represented in our politics, but politics should never be the only or even the greatest manifestation of our values. Our faith can inform our politics, but we must maintain sufficient space between the two for us to see clearly when we are and are not embodying our faith through our political actions.”Special Note: The publisher graciously gave me access to an advance copy of this book. It was so good and timely that I purchased the hardback version for my personal library!

Absolutely wonderful book, if everyone read it I think our world would be a better place