I’ve started, deleted, and restarted this about twenty or thirty times. Each time with more hesitation as I know how sensitive this topic is and also how strongly people feel the need to provide their opinion sometimes in a confrontational manner. 

Yes this is that dreaded, taboo, and cursed topic-Politics and the upcoming election. Don’t get me wrong I actually love politics. I love the passion that elections inspire in people, the duty that should be ignited in every elected official and citizen, and the hope that our country was founded on- that everyone would be able to find and use their voice. HOWEVER, there is hardly a space or place where conversations about politics or politicians can be had without shouting, name calling, and the overwhelming tones of disdain or disrespect. I can’t believe that our founders would want the nation so divided as to not be able to have a civilized conversation about the issues that will shape our country. I can’t imagine that the men and women who have died serving our country truly believe that arguing like school children with their hands covering their ears honors their sacrifice. I can’t. I can’t fathom where we all went wrong. Because, amongst the political harpoons being tossed back and forth the damage they inflict affect us all.

I had a professor in college who fell on the complete opposite side of the aisle from most of my  political stances and yet I found him to be intriguing, insightful, and someone that made me a better student, citizen, and American. Because, in having to discuss with someone whose opinions weren’t my own and ask questions and challenge (politely) my ideals I had to stop and actually think about why I believed what I did and who was making these decisions for me. Was it because this is what my parents always believed? Was it because I didn’t want to anger the Facebook mobs who would gleefully bring out their pitchforks? Or could it possibly be that these issues, these beliefs could be mine based on the issues that mattered to me and what I believed would make America a better and safer place. You can’t sharpen and refine your beliefs if they aren’t tested; and they can’t be tested if you don’t genuinely allow yourself to walk in someone else’s shoes, listen to the stories that shaped and molded who they are, and respect that they make their decisions because they also want to make this country a better place. Only then can you sit across from your friends, co workers, neighbors, or family members and simply talk. 

That doesn’t mean you will agree with them. But it means you can respect that they have a voice and they have a choice that only they get to make through their ballet. So I plead with everyone to strive to be educated voters. Know where and how to vote. Know what the issues are and where candidates stand on your priorities. Make a decision for yourself rather than blindly following a political party, your friends/family, or what seems popular in the news. Your vote matters and it deserves the effort to be educated and informed. Our country matters and it deserves citizens that want to be involved in the process. Your voice matters because only you have your story that shaped what America means to you. Honor that. 

I know this is a heavy topic. I know there are some that are simply counting down the days until this all “blows over.” Weary and frustrated with seeing those we love tear each other down. So if you’re tired of all the fighting and wish to put your pitchfork down. Grab a friend and ask them what issues are important to them and when you ask why actually stop and listen. They may not change your mind but they can give you their perspective and maybe just maybe we can work together to find a common ground and solution to these growing problems. 

(To lighten the mood and further emphasize the IMPORTANCE of being an informed voter here is a clip from one of my all time favorite shows: West Wing)