Politics...
Politics... one of the most important topics I avoid while conversing with friends and acquaintances, particularly if we have different political views. If you ask me what my political affiliation is, chances are I will not tell you. Not out of disrespect, but because I won’t allow myself to fall victim to the political bashing that is so common, especially with today’s political situation. I have witnessed too many conversations between friends end with one (or both) sides belittling the other for the opinions and beliefs they hold. I value my peace and happiness, so if it helps me keep both those intact, I will steer clear from this subject matter.
Growing up a military brat enabled me to meet all kinds of people with every type of belief imaginable – political and spiritual. I have friends in various states and even countries with different opinions and views than I do; yet, I never let that influence how I saw them as an individual. What helps me with how I view you as a person is not whether you are a Democrat or a Republican, a Christian or a Muslim, or if you voted for Biden or Trump; what determines how I see you are your actions, your integrity and your kindness toward others. I lived in Germany for 12 years. One thing I am grateful for is the opportunity to learn about different cultures and not stereotype people. Some of the nicest, most humble and peaceful people I met while living overseas were Muslims. Many people fail to realize that every religion, every race and every political affiliation all have extremists. Not every Trump supporter condones storming the capitol, and not every member of the Green party is an eco-terrorist.
If you have different opinions or beliefs than I do, I am more than eager to hear your standpoint and all the reasons why you believe the way you do. I like to take every opportunity presented to me as a chance to extend my knowledge and learn. No one should ever be content with only knowing what they already know. I miss the time when politics, religious beliefs and opinions weren’t a barrier for people to treat each other with equality and basic human decency.