A common phrase I hear is "Don't waste your time debating a liberal/leftist."

The reason why I think it is completely worth talking is because I was a Democrat voter. I changed.

If someone would have talked with me in more depth EARLIER, I would have changed even EARLIER than I did.

What would have changed me sooner? Asking me what I thought. Taking an interest in me. Answering my questions in a straight forward and fact based way.

I grew up only hearing the Democrat's perspective. How could I even consider voting Republican if no one had ever even explained another perspective and how it relates to me and my life?

The truth is on our side and I think we do a disservice to the cause when we are not willing to engage. I know there are crazy people that you should walk away from but the vast majority are not crazy and are interested in listening -- I certainly was.

Talking openly also gives courage to people who agree with you but simply don't know how to put their positions in to words. Remaining silent gives the entire public domain court (where culture is formed) to the enemy with zero resistance.

Thank you.