The older I get, the more I realize just how cruel and rude people are. This stands to be most truthful during election years. Most people tend to come from families where they share the same basic beliefs. However, that is not a privilege most have.
The first election I remember being old enough to comprehend was the infamous 2016 election, where former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, and then businessman, Donald Trump, ran against one another. Oh, what a time to be alive.
Thirteen year old me was just so excited to have a woman running for president, but as I expressed this happiness, my then history teacher laughed at me and wanted to tell me every single reason why a woman shouldn’t be president. A lot of maturing has just simply made me accept that people have opinions and they are allowed to, but thirteen year old me did not share that sentiment. Needless to say, I got in trouble for firing back at this teacher.
I have fallen victim to the brutality that can come with talking politics with someone that has a differing opinion. I was a very well known Trump hater in high school and had many people try and change my mind, and they were met with a level of anger I didn’t know existed. Looking back now, I’m embarrassed. Not for sharing my opinions and remaining firm in them, but for being just as unkind as these people were to me.
As time does to most, I have mellowed more and more each year. Compared to my eighth grade year, senior year me was much more prepared for the 2020 election, but it seemed nobody else was.
2020 was a year of violence, sickness, and general awfulness for everyone. The pandemic had already brought out the worst in everyone, and the election simply gave people an outlet to be brutal for no reason, on both sides. Disagreement does not have to equal hatred, which is a sentiment that is not shared by many people in this country. After the election of 2020, people showed their true colors, and it doesn’t seem to be something they want to take back.
With primaries taking place currently and the main election approaching in November of this year, I make a plea to everyone to be kind. While I think that it’s extremely important to hold onto your beliefs, never go into a discussion with a closed mind. While you may never agree with someone, that does not give you the right to berate someone. We as people do not get to be unkind to others simply because their politics may be different. Agree to disagree with them, and then move on with your life.
During this election season, I encourage those who can to vote, and to fight for what is important to you. Only you can speak of the change you wish to see within this country. Also, vote for who is best for you and the people you surround yourself with, and nobody else.
Politics are taboo and simply put, gross, but a necessary evil to the country we live in. Remember, you are allowed to believe what you want, but you are never allowed to discredit or invalidate anybody. Make this election year less hostile and hope for the best.
