IT'S THE SMALL THINGS
Holy week is upon us, and so is election fever. Thirty days to go, and campaign period in full blast, people are most definitely hyped! With the excitement comes some frenzy, and unfortunately, toxicity as well.
Exchanges – both pleasant and unpleasant – are rampant on social media, with the latter unfortunately becoming more mainstream. As with other elections, it is expected, and oftentimes, depends who one chooses to associate him/herself with, the more (or less) bashing or support one receives. If there is one thing I have learned through the years however, it is that more often than not (and I say this because there are few exceptions) it is not worth burning bridges and ending friendships over political choices and preferences.
Depending on the camp one chooses to support, and whether or not you let your preferences be known, somehow lies your fate, and luck in either garnering support or being mocked for your choice. What I want people to remember is that it is up to you to allow this to happen – rather, whether or not this is acceptable in your world is entirely up to you. In the same way that we all have our own opinions, we are not always brought up in the same manner as even our closest friends. Heck, even within families there are opposing ideas on who would make better leaders, and preferences are not always in line. Yet, when we get caught up in the heat of the moment, we have the tendency to let our emotions get the better of us, oftentimes fueled by expectations (which then lead to disappointments) that those closest to us share the same views. Always remember that the campaign period lasts 90 days (for national) and 45 (for local) only. After which, winners emerge, and whether our bets make it or not, we live in a democracy, and therefore, must abide with the choice of the majority. Make sure relationships and friendships outlive campaign periods (and to the ones that do not, perhaps there is a larger reason and an awakening involved) – this is the perfect time to agree to disagree. And that is okay.
Respect is key and crucial in allowing this to happen. It takes a lot of patience as well sometimes, but believe me when I tell you that it goes a long way and you will thank yourself in the end. People have their reasons in the same way that you have yours. Just because your views do not align this time, it does not make any of yours less valid. In the same way that you stand for your ideals, so does the other person. Even if the political choices and decisions of close friends, and even family, can be shocking and in your opinion absurd, do your best to employ respect. It is so easy to get carried away with rabid and passionate individuals, but go by these wise words: less said, less done. Nothing said, nothing done. It has seemed to work for me in multiple scenarios.
Thirty days to go, and a week of reflection and prayer is coming up. May we use this time to reflect, meditate and research on who we think the best leaders for our nation are. Remember, their power lies in our votes. Be prepared, and vote wisely come May 9th! You will thank yourself later, I promise.