It wouldn't be unfair to say that Houghton is kind of secluded. Compared to what many are used to, it's in the middle of nowhere. I, for one, feel like it's been way too long since I've seen a Starbucks- but it's not like that's a real problem. In all seriousness, living out here can often feel like living in a life-sized snow globe with almost no access to the outside world. We have classes, chapel services, friendships, and school events that fill our time to the point that there's almost none leftover. We are stuck in a Houghton bubble.

Inside this bubble, which is a wonderful bubble to live in, I have discovered that there's an abundance of varying points of view. These points of view often conflict with one another. Surprise! There are differences of opinion even in a small Christian community like that of Houghton College. Who could have imagined that!?

In this country as a whole, there isn't a lot of productive conversation in the world of politics. More specifically, our culture is one that is quick to shut down those who disagree with us and think of life differently than we do. It's a divisive mindset that will only prevent positive changes from being instituted. It's close to impossible to start a discussion without accidentally sparking a miniature crisis or immediately making enemies. This is a sad reality, and I've even seen it occurring through interactions amongst students and other community members. There needs to be a serious attitude adjustment, and an effort to eliminate the expectation that people must agree on everything in order to make any sort of progress.

Here at Houghton, I believe there is a strong spirit of inclusion, acceptance, encouragement, and most importantly, a firm commitment to Christ-like love. When disagreements arise, as they most definitely will, there is a right and a wrong way to approach them. There is a way to constructively and positively engage in dialogue that will serve to unite the student body on our common ground as opposed to dividing us because of the differences in our beliefs. Even more, there are ways that people with differing opinions (yes, it is possible) can come together and focus their efforts towards something that will benefit their community, not divide and tear it apart.

Paul's instructions in the book of Philippians can also be applied to our lives together at Houghton. "Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel" (verse 27).

Is our conduct really worthy of the Gospel of Christ when we point fingers at one another and shout "racist!", "sinner!", or "bigot!"? Probably not. In the same way, judging others because we disapprove of their manner of life is just as ineffective as hating someone because of an opinion they hold. Neither of these approaches will lead to any sort of positive outcome, nor do they encourage us to stand firm, as one, for the sake of the Gospel.

The world is filled with people who have differences in opinion, and Houghton is not the only place where these differences exist. Intelligent, compassionate conversations open the door to understanding and respecting others. Hating people who think differently is no different than hating people because of their religion, skin color, sexual orientation, etc.

Instead of flowing with the current culture and letting differences divide, believers, like those in our community at Houghton, should focus on bringing Kingdom culture to their lives. On this campus, there is an incredible potential for people to make positive changes both on on campus and in the world at large. It starts with a willingness to approach others with open minds and Christ-like love, not hatred.