Shirley Williams Quotes

Understanding is a two-way street.

At some point, you have to be willing to accept other people's opinions. I think that's helpful.

Being stubborn is not an asset. You have to be able to see things through other people's eyes.

It is only when the partisan shouting stops that we can hear each other's voices and concerns.

It's important for people to give every leader the chance to step forward and look for ways to have dialogue.

There is always hope when people are forced to listen to both sides.

I learned to have the patience to listen when people put forward their views, even if I think those views are wrong. You can't reach a just decision in a dispute unless you listen to both sides.

It is understanding that gives us an ability to have peace. When we understand the other fellow's viewpoint, and he understands ours, then we can sit down and work out our differences.

Dialogue between people of differing views is critical for fostering understanding in a democracy.

If one sticks too rigidly to one's principles, one would hardly see anybody.

When you have a conflict, that means that there are truths that have to be addressed on each side of the conflict. And when you have a conflict, then it's an educational process to try to resolve the conflict. And to resolve that, you have to get people on both sides of the conflict involved so that they can dialogue.

Hear the other side.

In true dialogue, both sides are willing to change.

If you want to get along with somebody, let them be right, and it will last longer.

Carrying our successful diplomacy is difficult if you do not have ears for things you do not want to hear.

if we stop talking at one another, and start talking with one another, we can get a lot done.

You don't promote the cause of peace by talking only to people with whom you agree.

If you want help from partners, that means listening to them every once in a while.

Try and understand--there are views other than yours.

Understanding the other person's viewpoint is the beginning of polical wisdom,

If you would convince others, seem open to conviction yourself.

I have tried to treat people on the other side civilly and look for common ground.

I think I'm always trying to see the other's point of view, dealing in a very heart-to-heart way.

I've got my own mind, and I'll talk about it, but I'm willing to listen. I'm very balanced like that. If you don't want a guy who's balanced, who wants to win, and can bring people together well... I don't know.

I'm open to listening to proposals, options, it doesn't hurt.