The constant reference to it as the "ground zero" mosque and the gross misrepresentations of the words and actions of the imam director of the community center in question by the right wing media and the opposition to the facility only spread ignorance and intolerance.
The result is the backlash against Muslim and other mosques across the country. Islamaophobia is not only counter to American values but dangerous at many levels.
Perhaps a visual will help:
Pause. Breathe. Step back and look at yourself (often this is triggered when someone questions what you are doing). Pay attention to where you are and what is around you (right brain). Be self-reflective: Why am I trying to coerce? What am I afraid of? Is there a better way to persuade? How can I stay in a respectful relationship with this person?