For many people, talking about spiritual or religious issues is not for public conversation. There are those who have no spiritual beliefs or may be opposed to religion. Others have experienced it as a source of conflict, and don't want to be "told" what to think or how to live. And some feel it's just too personal to discuss, or they hold back for fear of offending others.

All such perspectives are valid. Yet is this really practical in our multicultural and multi-faith society? How do we learn to understand our neighbours if we don't talk about something that affects so many parts of our society - from family life and the workplace, to community services for the needy and vulnerable, charitable giving to countries stricken with war and disasters, and even to our festivals, holidays, foods and health?

Five years ago, I attended a provincial government health forum that included conversations about the role of spirituality in health care. This event left me wondering: Is there a way to talk about spirituality in all areas of life, in constructive ways - that help us see the world from others' perspectives and dispel misunderstandings, rather than adding to them?

This question led me to the idea for Spiritually Speaking, a blog - or Internet-based article and discussion forum - that runs in the Times Colonist online at timescolonist.com/spirituality. Started 18 months ago with an intrepid team of inter-faith thinkers, it explores a wide range of themes, inviting responses. At times the conversations are controversial and "spirited." But they have always been kept respectful. And that, I believe, is one of the keys to its success.

Another reason why it's now a widely read blog is something we've lost sight of in this era of secular beliefs and political correctness; that people really want to talk about this subject. We may come from different perspectives - religious, scientific, secular, atheist, nature-based spirituality - but many of us want to share our own experiences and ideas, and be heard.

Bearing in mind the recent vandalism at the Jewish cemetery, as an example of the narrow ignorance and prejudice seen around the world in different ways, we also witnessed our city's inspiring solidarity and support for the Jewish community last Sunday at the Vigil of Respect, at that same cemetery. These events show the relevance of this discussion page, and the opportunities it presents for dialogue, because talking about that which is dear to the heart of so many in our community, brings understanding and develops our community's relationships. This is the greatest defence against ignorant or deliberate acts of hate.

Will we converse with each other with civility and respect? I think we will, because this is the kind of community most of us want to develop.