Let's Talk Politics.

I have a secret. I love politics. And election season. I love these two things so passionately for a number of reasons.

Election season makes people dig deep and figure out who they are and what they believe. And the really brave ones put these beliefs with their names attached on the internet. I love the self-confidence these people have.

Politics can bring about intelligent conversation. I love that politics get people talking about important things. I love that these conversations are happening. I love that people have different views, and I especially love having these conversations with people who don't share my views. I learn a lot. I appreciate the differences because these people are aware of and passionate about people, things, situations, and circumstances that maybe I'm ignorant of.

Recently a friend posted a meme. A pretty controversial meme. And it was done so beautifully, it needs to be talked about. You really can't post something political on social media with the conditions of, "don't comment if you don't agree or I'll delete you" or "don't comment at all". That drives me crazy. But this friend put a lot of thought into posting before she did, and she lives her life in such a way that those who did disagree felt safe to say so and express that they were a little hurt by the posting. (Politics are full of emotion. And they should be.)

-Now here's where it gets good.-

This friend addressed every single person and concern, and did so in an amazing way. She let every person, one on one, know that she valued them. They were important. Their thoughts were important. Those friendships and relationships were important. Real conversation and discussion was allowed to take place with specific articles and information. Just about every post began with, "I see what you said, and here's what I have to add to that". It was beautiful.

Unfortunately, so rarely do conversations unfold the way this particular one did. I love that we can be bold and share things online so easily. With everything ramping up, keep in mind that people are important. Their opinions and thoughts do matter. But by all means: Be bold, but be kind.