We often think about political positions based upon the common concepts of Left (Liberal), Right, (Conservative), and Centrists or Moderates. This can sometimes have a tendency to separate us and put us on opposite sides of the political spectrum. The focus or accent can be on our differences.

In order to find common ground, it is sometimes helpful to look at a political circle. The people on the right or left and at the bottom of the circle basically want the same thing but have some differences in how they would like them accomplished. Both may want safe and healthy children but have differences in what that means or how it can be accomplished. The further up the circle the greater the differences. The people at the top of the circle and at the right or left have very different goals but similar methods in achieving them. The top tends to be more totalitarian and the bottom tends to be more democratic.

You will note that there are six sections of the circle. Most of our positions lie in more than one section. We may find ourselves in different sections depending upon the issue. Most of the people who I have worked with in collaborations or coalitions tend to have most of their views in the bottom portion of the circle, but there is a wide variation in the side of the circle, depending upon the individual and the individual issue. Understanding where we have common goals, often helps to overcome the differences when they arise.