The political circus happening in our midst is not estranged to anyone. Even if you do not keep up with it on a day-to-day basis, you have definitely heard (or seen) tidbits just by scrolling through social media, or in conversation with friends. Reality is that our circles are small, and in one way or another, we know, may have an acquaintance, or at least have heard of some of the characters involved at the very least.

Situations can become sticky when you have friends in politics, and that is the reality that some live. This becomes even trickier when those personalities happen to be enveloped, and embroiled in crises at the moment. But for those friendships to thrive and survive, one must be capable of drowning out the noise.

Of remembering the root of your friendship, and why you are friends to begin with. Because a true friendship will withstand administrations, mudslinging, controversy, and crises.

The truest of friendships stand the test of time, and the test of all these trials.

Perspective plays an important role as well in continuing to nurture, and play the role of a good friend most especially in these trying times. This is when we stand steadfast and strong. We want to be known as their pillar, rather than as a barometer that sways depending on the good, and bad times.

People will always remember how we make them feel, so let us give them something worthwhile about us to remember.

Whether it is shifting our perspective to help us quiet the noise, or navigating their mindset so that they are able to see their cup as half full, how we act, and how we lend ourselves to others at times when they are most downtrodden more often than not shape their perspective of us for the long run.

Remember, what goes up, will always come down. The world is round, and the sun will always rise and set. When someone is in a situation we would not wish on anyone, we can be the best version of ourselves for them.

And that is when priority kicks in. Whether for ourselves, or to remind those who need to hear it, focus matters most.

Hone your energy on those who are important, on matters that are urgent and sensitive, and share your time with those who matter.

Zone in on things that will make a difference, and spend your time with those who you know would do the same for you. Prioritizing is key in living a full, meaningful and content life.

As the saying goes, the grass is always greener on the other side. But remember, we are always someone else’s “other side.”