We find ourselves in the middle of an election and inauguration process with high emotions. In the past decade, Americans have been fuming in the midst of political debate.
As a high schooler, it’s an awkward topic. A reason it’s so awkward is because I know teens don’t even fully understand what the issues are.
I am just now individuating from my family. So, when tensions get high, I feel pulled in two different directions. Although tensions are high, there has always been one thing that I can count on; treating humans the way humans should be treated.
Politics is life on steroids. For most people, the personal is the political, so politics can shape lives and the ways people choose to go about it. Although that’s the point and result of politics, I wish we could make a change.
Why are we allowing our political views to give us reasons to bash those we love? Why does one decision we make need to label us as good or bad? Can we not coexist and learn to love people for who they are?
I’ve experienced this firsthand, and it has bothered me more than anything to see families fall apart because of a decision on politics. Whether you live in a liberal, conservative, or even mixed household like many are, it’s hard to see the people you love fight and ruin relationships over something like politics. There is something so awkward and wrong about it to me. And all I have to say about that is: Where is the love?
Elections are a unique moment to practice grace and understanding. Although for some, it’s a hard time to express your true self and be authentic, we need to start allowing ourselves to accept others.
No election, no matter how important, is worth tearing apart relationships. Instead of seeing elections as a reason to divide, they can be a chance to unite by remembering the shared values that connect us as people. An election isn’t just about who wins or lose-it’s about how we, as a community, move
forward. If we can agree that everyone wants what’s best for their families and their future, we can begin to see beyond the slogans and soundbites and focus on solutions.
There’s a reason you can’t vote until the age of 18, and that is because of maturity. But I hate to say, our society has become immature. Start treating people the way you would want to be treated, and stop letting opinions change the way you see the value of someone’s life. This is one thing that really boils my blood. When I see my family bash each other and even those around us because of their opinions it disgusts me. Although I may not fully understand each side, I don’t think that kind of hate and prejudice should be taking place within families. At the end of the day we all love each other (whether it is just forced family love or not).
Life wouldn’t be fun or even have meaning if everyone agreed all the time. It’s natural to disagree, and that’s something to embrace. Let’s start controlling the things we can control.
When election results come in, remember: that no single leader or policy defines everything. The strength of our democracy lies in its ability to give everyone a voice, even those we disagree with. Instead of acting out of hate and anger towards someone’s political view, allow them to explain themselves first. It’s crazy how much people have in common after just one simple conversation.
As we head into this new presidency next month, I encourage everyone to hold onto their beliefs but also find a way to accept the person next to them. Elections are temporary, but relationships are enduring. Hate will never change a person, so consider leading with love. Let’s choose kindness over division and empathy over judgment. Our future depends on it.
