The better angels of our nature

I just came from a trying meeting. Without dwelling on the details of it, let me just say that it is rare that I am reminded of the fact that there are people who are violently and diametrically opposed to my own beliefs. People for whom "live and let live" is apparently not an option. It's rare, but when it does happen, it always takes me by surprise. I'm reminded of Lincoln who, in his first inaugural address and facing the collapse of the Union, appealed to "the better angels of our nature." Now ultimately Lincoln was assassinated, but I would like to think that in this day and age, we could find a way to listen to the better angels of our nature and seek harmony and community instead of divisiveness and hatred.