I too have very strong opinions & realize that everyone else has their own opinions also. I try hard to express my opinions without trying to force them on anyone. Sometimes it is hard to express my opinion without getting on the wrong side of the person that I am replying to. I don't want people to think that my opinion is the only way or the only thing that counts.....& hope that there are many other points of view to look at. But as I found out even with my own Mother.....she didn't want to hear my opinion. I then when I did express my opinion, she would take everything personally rather than just taking it just an opinion.

I try hard to express my opinions in a way where they are just that.....my opinion. I realize that I can't determine how someone will take what I say, & sometimes I am reluctant to express my opinions when I don't know well the person I am talking to. Even when I know the person (as in my Mothers case) I am always stressed about speaking my opinion even though I know that is just what it is & there will be as many opinions as there are people. I usually have opinions (or thoughts) on almost everything & the challenge is expressing them in a way where they can be accepted. The other thing I really try hard to do is base my opinions on knowledge, not just my feelings. That was something my father never did....he had all kinds of opinions that weren't based on any kind of knowledge & those were the times when I was completely embarrased by him.

I appreciate hearing other peoples opinions....it helps me know that there are other ways of thinking that should be looked into....not ignored, nor something to make me angry.

Opinions are a good thing when we take them for what they are.
Debbie