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I'm not necessarily speaking in terms of racism or other forms of prejudice. What upsets me most is the lack of understanding that some people have for the opinions of others.

We see intolerance everywhere. It's a huge part of high school. Intolerance for someone's taste in clothing, music or ideals is what causes rifts between members of the student body.

And, of course, it doesn't stop there. The "real world" is full of it. Think about how many conflicts--whether in the workplace or in the case of international relations--arise because of people unwilling to accept differences in religion, political philosophy or anything else.

It is so frustrating to hear people saying that someone's opinion about a CD is "wrong" or that a person's stance on a social issue is "stupid."

The only thing that's stupid is not realizing that these are OPINIONS, not concrete facts, at hand.

Personally, I don't mind at all when someone challenges what I have to say. In fact, I kind of enjoy it. What better way is there to to form an opinion or strengthen an argument than to examine the opposite position first?

So maybe I'm a little bit argumentative--but in the best way possible, I hope. I'm a firm believer in accepting and respecting other people's beliefs and opinions.

Respecting what someone else thinks does not mean that you have to agree with it. In most cases, when I discuss an issue with someone who has a different viewpoint, my opinion doesn't change. Nonetheless, it is important to make a point of attempting to understand the other side.

In a country where we, as Americans, proudly boast of our diversity, I find it ironic that so many people are afraid of differences. Really, what kind of a country would it be if everyone agreed on everything? Pretty boring, if you ask me. I'm not all about stirring up rebellion by any means, but differences in opinion keep us on our toes.

It's not that hard to maintain an open-minded attitude. Comments like, "What an idiot, how can he like that CD? It's horrible, and he obviously has no musical knowledge whatsoever," can easily be replaced with a simple shrug and a sentiment such as, "I don't like that CD, but I guess he does."

I don't mean to sound pedantic, and maybe it's easier said than done. In any case, it's never too late to develop an open mind-set.

So next time someone states what you believe is a ridiculous opinion, think about it for a second before you prepare a response. It's enlightening. Trust me.