Very well said KT.  There's not one thing wrong with having non-negotiables in life. Things we simply wont budge on. What boggles me is when these absolute beliefs translate into intolerance. 

Believe what you will, own it, preach it. But let me do the same without maligning me for it. I understand that a strong belief comes with a certain amount of righteousness - we wouldn't believe it so strongly if it didn't - but nothing elevates one person over another, or gives someone dominion over 'the truth'. Beliefs are simply opinions. Nothing more. You wouldn't degrade another because their favorite color is different than yours. And you don't think they're wrong or evil because of it.

My mother said something to me on this topic when I was maybe 14, and I never forgot it. It was in reference to some trait one of my brothers possessed that happened to irk me. She said simply, 'We're all different, and we must respect one another's individuality'.

Yes, come to the party as you are...but enjoy others for who they are, and be grateful for the ability to interact with people from different walks of life. Respect their individuality.