Tom Shafer and I may be on opposite sides of the political debate ("Ideology clogs dialogue," Oct. 18), but we can certainly agree that there needs to be more civility in how we treat others who don't share our views.

Tom stated that he's a Republican and votes his values. I'm a Democrat and vote my values too - affordable health care for all; a clean environment; equal rights for gays and lesbians; an end to the war in Iraq; and the right for a woman to have a safe and legal abortion - to name just a few. Clearly Tom and I would disagree on many points. But I think we would agree to have a civil and rational dialogue, which is what is sorely lacking in today's society.

My heart goes out to the Shafer's daughter, Paige, who witnessed the vitriolic attacks and name-calling of their uninvited guest. As a Christian and West Seattle church member myself, I applaud the Shafer's decision to respond to hate with compassion.

Jesus himself said the greatest commandment of all is to "love our neighbors as ourselves." If we all followed that directive, wouldn't the world be a kinder, gentler place? We could disagree without condemnation, and we could debate without denigration.

Tom and his wife would be welcome at my house anytime for a few beers and a thoughtful, respectful discussion.

LeeAnne Beres

Alaska Junction