Authors Corbin Hoornbeek and Suzanne M. Rivera highlight how love and compassion can help us transcend political violence. By focusing on empathy and mutual respect, they propose a pathway toward unity in a more perfect Union.
Opinion | We have a common goal of a ‘more perfect Union’

Key Takeaways:
- We share a collective pursuit of a “more perfect Union.”
- Love and compassion are central to bridging deep political divides.
- Addressing political violence requires empathy as a starting point.
- Partisan lines can be crossed through honest dialogue.
- Individual acts of understanding contribute to lasting social change.
The Shared Aspiration
In their opinion piece, authors Corbin Hoornbeek and Suzanne M. Rivera acknowledge a common goal: building a “more perfect Union.” This sentiment echoes across the political spectrum, reminding us that, despite our differences, we yearn for a society in which everyone benefits from mutual respect and understanding.
Compassion at the Core
“To get there, we start with love and compassion,” write the authors, underscoring how genuine empathy can diffuse tension. By reminding readers that each person involved in our political landscape has a shared humanity, they emphasize that compassion should serve as the foundation for debate and dialogue.
Addressing Partisan Divides
The link accompanying this article references “peace-after-political-violence-partisan-divide,” illustrating the challenge of moving past hostility. By focusing on love as a guiding principle, Hoornbeek and Rivera argue that solutions to partisan disputes start with recognizing the real people behind differing viewpoints.
Personal and Collective Action
In urging us toward positive change, the authors appeal to each individual’s responsibility. Even small gestures of empathy can transform public discourse and ripple outward, encouraging others to listen more openly. Through collective care and commitment, the nation can forge a path to unity grounded in mutual respect.