Do you know what really frustrates me? The war between the LGBT and Christian communities. Yes, both parties disagree on some foundational issues, but instead of discussing their differences like civilized people, many on both sides have resorted to verbal and physical violence. It appears that each side is simply trying to voice their opinion the loudest, even if that means hurting others.

I think this feud has gone too far. Now is the time for peace between Christians and the LGBT community so that proper discussion about beliefs can take place. In order for this peace to happen, however, I see wrong ideas that need to be fixed on both sides of the issue.

Let’s start with the Christian crowd, which says that homosexuality is morally wrong. I won’t argue with that point. I’m a Christian myself, and cannot deny what I believe the Bible says. But aside from homosexuality, do you know what else our God says is wrong? Hateful speech, lying, stealing and lusting.

Are we ever not breaking one of God’s laws? Romans 3:23 says that everyone is a sinner; that includes all Christians. It also says in James 3 that it is not our job to judge others — that’s God’s job. So, Christians, take that accusing finger and turn it around because if you want to find wrongdoing, you need look no further than your mirror.

LGBT community, you aren’t off the hook, though. You also have a part to play in this horrible conflagration. You believe that one of your rights is free sexual expression. Oftentimes, however, as you defend your right, you trample over Christians’ rights to freedom of religious belief and expression. We live in America, so you can fight for your issue, but don’t stomp on the freedoms of others. Christians, like me, should be able to use their freedom of religion and speech to say, “I believe homosexuality is wrong,” just as those in the LGBT crowd should be able to say, “I believe homosexuality is OK.”

Now, make sure you understand what I am saying. I am not advocating hate speech. Freedom of speech and freedom of religious (or areligious) expression does not give license to attack people’s intelligence or personality. No, it gives a platform to talk about belief. In fact, as Americans, we have a responsibility to discuss beliefs in order to prevent misunderstandings.

What I am promoting is friendship between Christians and the LGBT community. We don’t agree — and we probably never will — but we can still be friends. After all, Republicans and Democrats can be friends. I mean, even Cyclones and Hawkeyes can be friends (well, we can tolerate each other, anyway). Only after we break past these barriers of misunderstanding and hurt can we really begin talking about what we believe.