Have you ever been sitting at dinner with friends and been asked the dreaded political question? Or maybe you love a good political debate and embrace an opportunity to voice your opinion about the latest political hot topic. Unless you are living off the grid, you are well aware that we are knee-deep in political season. As the primaries wrap up (hopefully) and television ads become increasingly more frequent, strong political views will only become stronger, more personal and more evident. Yay.
Although I have considerably strong views about many political issues, I typically try to abide by the adage, “never talk about religion or politics.” I have a few exceptions to this rule – mostly with people I know who are like-minded or someone who has experience, knowledge and opinions that I truly respect.
Insert this sweatshirt.
When I saw this at Nordstrom, I knew I had to buy it immediately. Although I’ve only been through a few elections as a voter, I’ve been through enough to know that I am not a fan of the ugliness that surrounds the division between the political parties. My motto this election season? #letsbefriends
How do you maintain #friendshipstatus during election season? Honestly, I have no idea. But in an effort to be kind, open-minded and more adult-like than just talking to those who agree with me, I plan to follow these simple tips:
F – Facts. Learn the facts. Rely less (or not at all) on biased media outlets and more on non-partisan and reliable sources. (Links to my favs: NPR, The Wall Street Journal and fivethirtyeight.com).
R – Respect. Respect other opinions. If a disagreement arises, keep quiet and listen.
I – Interest. Stay interested. Ask questions. Listen more and talk less. (Wow. I can’t believe I just wrote that. You’re welcome T.)
E – Enjoy. Enjoy the discussion. Enjoy the dialogue. Enjoy the process. Enjoy the differences.
N – Neutral. Stay neutral. One of my favorite people on this earth abides by this rule. You will never know who he votes for or what he believes. He says completely neutral during political conversations. He keeps the emotion out of any political discussion. (Easier said than done for me, but I’ll give it a go.)
D – Debate. If staying neutral is not an option, debate. Stay calm at all costs and approach the debate as an opportunity to learn rather than an opportunity to convince your opponent that they are wrong and you are right.
S – Smile and sweatshirt. When all else fails, let a smile and this sweatshirt do the talking.
Outfit Deets // Sweatshirt // Denim // Shoes // Sunnies
Photos by Bree Marie Photography.
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