About this quote

Disagreement usually feels like a threat, but it only turns corrosive when goodwill is missing. Add patience, a real wish for the other person's good, and honesty, and opposing views start covering each other's blind spots rather than hardening into a fight.

When to use it

• A design team whose loud arguments produce a stronger plan because no one is trying to win, only to get it right.
• Two partners with opposite temperaments, one cautious and one bold, who keep each other from the mistakes each would make alone.
• Neighbors of different faiths who trade holiday meals and questions instead of trading complaints.