Finding common ground in a divided world

I appreciate the often-difficult dialogue that leads to social and political fragmentation. I don’t pretend to have the answer to bridging the chasm that exists in society, but I do know this: empathy and kindness are non-negotiable.

Let's call this political philosophy "Pragmatic Patriotism" - where optimism wears a cowboy hat, government builds highways instead of headaches, and diplomacy carries both a handshake and a firm grip. For me, kindness and empathy are as ingrained as my DNA. I imagine those with opposite views feel just as immovable in their convictions, shaped by life experiences radically different from my own. But where does that leave us?

We’ve reached a point where division is the default, compromise is a dirty word, and the simplest principles—love thy neighbor, treat others as you’d want to be treated—are not just ignored but actively mocked.

And yet, I refuse to lose hope. Every day, I see the good in people. I see kindness, resilience, and a willingness to help others. That’s what keeps me going. I see it in business owners who go the extra mile to support their employees, in community members who show up for one another, and in organizations that work tirelessly to ensure that no one is left behind. These acts of generosity remind me that despite our ideological differences, we share a common humanity.

Still, we can’t keep pretending this divide will magically fix itself. If we don’t start finding common ground - real, meaningful common ground - things will get worse before they get better. A thriving community isn’t built on winners and losers; it’s built on cooperation, shared goals, and a recognition that different perspectives can coexist.

Patriotism is not owned by one party or the other. Love of country comes in many forms, and it is not defined by any single ideology. Independence Day is a reminder that this nation was founded on the principles of unity, resilience, and the pursuit of a common good. These moments should serve as opportunities to reflect on what binds us together rather than what divides us.

So how do we get there? Maybe it starts with something simple: listening. Not just waiting for our turn to talk, but truly hearing each other. It means acknowledging that the experiences that shaped our beliefs are valid, even if they differ from our own. It means recognizing that the best decisions come from considering multiple viewpoints, not just the ones that align with our own.

True diversity and inclusion are about fostering an environment where different voices are heard, valued, and incorporated into decision-making. This should have universal acceptance. Yet, here we are, stuck in a cycle of talking past each other, of assuming the worst about those who disagree with us. We can do better. We must do better.

Maybe we can agree to start small: Be good to each other. Stay kind. Lead with love. Disagree without dehumanizing. Recognize that no one has all the answers, and that the best solutions often come from working together rather than apart.

We don’t need to abandon our values or beliefs to find common ground. The key to bridging the gap lies not in erasing our differences, but in embracing the humanity within them. If we can lead with empathy, listen with intention, and act with kindness, the future of our communities—and our nation—can be one of meaningful connection, where our collective strength is rooted in the values that unite us all. That’s the America I believe in. That’s the America we can build together.

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, 3-time national chamber of the year. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com