The work I do today—helping people bridge divides and create connections—is deeply personal. It began during a difficult time in my life. When I was a student at Mississippi State University, I was outed by an ex-boyfriend. The fallout was immediate and devastating. Phone calls from peers called me “disgusting” and accused me of being a sinner. My parents struggled to process the news, and my older brother suggested I leave our small Mississippi town for my own safety. Tragically, a friend of mine had recently been killed for being gay, and I realized that to many, I was no longer a person—just a label.
I left Mississippi, but running away didn’t bring the healing I sought. After six years of searching for spiritual and emotional clarity, I returned to face the fears and rejection I’d tried to escape. Over the past 14 years, I’ve focused on mending relationships and fostering understanding within my community. This work hasn’t been easy, but it has been transformative.
The Question That Changes Everything
When it comes to tackling difficult conversations, I always encourage people to start with one transformative question: “What are you most afraid of?”
This question goes beyond surface disagreements and gets to the heart of the matter. For example, when my mom and I revisited the day I came out, I assumed her fears were rooted in rejecting my identity. But when I asked her what she was afraid of, she revealed that her greatest fear was not knowing how to protect me in a world that could be so cruel. That shared vulnerability became the foundation for rebuilding our trust and strengthening our bond.
Since then, I’ve used this question in conversations with others—from friends to faith leaders—and it has consistently opened doors to understanding and healing.
Practical Tips for Tough Conversations
If you’re ready to engage in meaningful dialogue, here are three practical tips to guide you:
Start Small: Begin with one person. When I returned to Mississippi, I focused on initiating conversations one by one rather than trying to “change the world.” Instead of trying to change others’ minds, engage in connecting in meaningful ways…you’ll quickly learn how those interactions will impact you for the better.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Questions like, “What are you afraid of?” or “Can you tell me more about your perspective?” invite people to share their deeper thoughts. If they’re not ready, lead by example and share your own vulnerabilities first.
Take Breaks: Reconciliation takes time. It’s okay to step back, recharge, and return to the conversation later. Meaningful connection and relationships are often a marathon, not a sprint.
Beyond “Agree to Disagree”
“Let’s agree to disagree” is a tempting way to end a conversation, but it often bypasses the deeper emotions and understanding that real connection requires. Instead of settling for agreement, strive to understand why someone feels the way they do. This shift can lead to profound breakthroughs and a greater sense of mutual respect.
Why Cancel Culture Isn’t the Answer
One of the most challenging topics we tackled during the interview was cancel culture. It’s easy to write someone off when they’ve hurt or offended us. But canceling people often prevents reconciliation and growth. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity for redemption—with boundaries in place, of course.
The Power of Connection in a Divided World
As we navigate polarized environments, I urge everyone to pause before canceling someone. Ask yourself: What might happen if, instead of erasing this person, you embraced the opportunity for a hard, heart-driven conversation?
In my experience, these conversations can lead to immense healing, deeper understanding, and the kind of connection that bridges even the widest divides.
Appearing on The Social was a reminder of why I’m so passionate about this work. Whether it’s sharing my journey, asking tough questions, or encouraging others to have courageous conversations, I believe in the power of connection to transform lives.
So let’s lead with love, curiosity, and courage. Together, we can build a world where understanding triumphs over fear and division.
#HumanConnection #BridgingDivides #TheSocial #CourageousConversations #HealingThroughConnection
If you’d like to connect with Meagan, you can find her on Instagram @megonan or go to her website www.meaganonan.com
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