There are two words that, while they seem innocent, are really some of the most destructive words in the world – “prove it.”  Wars have been started over the simple concept of someone trying to prove they are right and someone else is wrong.  Relationships are ruined when one party draws the line in the sand and demands that proof be offered that they are the ones that are in error.  Time and energy are wasted daily as we spend our days trying to prove that what we say is right is right and what others say is wrong.

Frankly, I’ve had enough of it.  So if you are asking me to “prove it”, my answer is a polite, “no thank you.”

Now this isn’t to say that I don’t have proof for what I believe or am unwilling to consider that my way of thinking is incorrect.  I don’t think that I am somehow above being wrong or have all the right answers.  But there is a big difference between exploring a topic together and laying down sides and taking up arms in an argument.  I am more than willing to answer questions about my beliefs and to ask questions to others if I think that it will help me or others come to a deeper understanding of an issue.  But when a discussion turns to me defending my position while another defends their position and neither of us are going to budge from the issue, I’d rather not.  ”Prove it” is not an inquiry into the what and how of what I think, it is a challenge to draw a line in the sand and to take up arms in a battle of wits.  And, frankly, I have too much to do in life to spend it distracted in a war that cannot be won.

So, if you have a question about what I believe and why, feel free to ask.  If I have a question about what you believe and why I’ll ask.  I’ll be glad to talk together.  But if it comes down to “prove it”, whether it is actually stated that way or not, just know in advance that I’m just not interested.  You mean more to me than an argument, and I hope I do to you as well.