Thomas Neill and Sherwin Lee

Thomas Neill (TN) introduces himself and then Sherwin Lee (SL) introduces himself.

TN talks about his most influential friends Dave and Al, who taught him to slow down and be curious and how to accept gay people while also respecting the bible, respectfully.

SL talks about a member of his church, Ben, who taught him to be less confrontational in political debates in 2008. He talks about his experiences advocating for public transit, which meant working with many progressives and despite being a staunch Republican, he felt his attitude soften and be more open, while also not changing his convictions.

TN shares how he worries about being misunderstood before having the conversation. Shares that his wife's siblings are Qanon believers and have stopped speaking to her and he worries they'll pass before they reconcile.

SL gives an example of where he disagrees but respects TN's beliefs, being with LGBTQ issues. Agrees that loving his children is right but there is a fine line of loving them and supporting their lifestyle. He believes we're all born sinners and only Christ can provide redemption and forgiveness. He has no right to hate anyone and he wants what's best for others. On the topic of abortion, he isn't anti-woman, but he believes every life has value so is anti-abortion. But he respects how difficult the decision is and believes there is forgiveness in Christ. TN says until you're in the situation you don't really know what conviction will guide you.

SL found it interesting to hear how TN's views have changed over time as he's aged, surprised by how comfortable he is talking about his evolution of thinking. TN saw himself in some of SL's bio.

SL reflects on what people think a conservative Christian is - and he isn't one of them! Both reflect on the conflicts within their churches, and how valuable it is to talk to all kinds of people.

TN appreciates meeting someone different and taking it to other places. SL laments that you usually can't talk about hot button issues and SL says being across a table helps. They have differences but also commonalities and they appreciated talking with one another.