For me, political and religious beliefs are just as important as honesty and trustworthiness. When it comes to relationships, I look at the overall relationship first but then decide whether I can choose to ignore those beliefs and choose not to discuss the things we disagree on or if I would be better off distancing myself from that person. My best relationships are with those who have similar beliefs rooted in support of those less fortunate, a desire to make the world a better place, kindness, caring, love and positivity. I don't want people in my life that lie, promote hatred, racism, fear-mongering and negativity.
I no longer have friends who are on the other side. I'm tired of listening to their opinions while they have a meltdown if I try to give a different perspective. If you can't stop talking about it, I don't want to be bothered anymore. My life is much calmer now.
Instead of viewing one another as “left” or “right” observe how people show you who they are if they bring up politics. I will in fact sever a former friendship if the person is denigrating one side and speaking intolerantly.
Good insight and perspective - my friend and I stopped talking about politics until the election is over. It's a stressful and triggering time. We talk about the five trips we are taking next year.
What a timely topic Laura. My husband and I are also end Boomers who have found neighbors a generation younger distance themselves from us because they perceive our position in politics. We would never do this to anyone. Our position is to continue being the friendly neighbors we have always been.
I had always been able to have good friendships with people on both sides of the political landscape because it rarely came up in conversation. I grew up believing that the two things you should never talk about at a party are religion and politics, and then when Covid hit, that's all anyone talked about and I found that anytime I opened my mouth to say what I thought about what was going on in the world, someone would get upset, whether it was me or them, and so that's why I had to walk away from some friendships. I didn't want the friendships I had to end badly, so I quietly walked away and never went back because I felt there was too much water under the bridge so to speak.
I hate Presidential election years- it is so hard to watch the news leading up to November 5. I keep my Presidential preferences to myself but a lot of my friends and family do not. It’s so stressful. Great topic today.
Thank you for your wisdom. I'm Canadian. My own experience is Canadians are frequently private about discussing our Canadian politics with others. However, some of these same people are very eager to debate/ discuss USA politics. I will often distract the conversation because they may become intrusive or intense, even when we are in basic agreement. It's just not pleasant! Thank you for your excellent channel.
As a Canadian living in a border province and very dear friends State side only a 20 minute drive away, I purposely do not engage in political discussions with them - I simply value those friendships and do not want hurt to enter them
@brendaphinney4329 my husband is American and he is very political. I myself am Canadian and I'm not really political. Of course I care about things Etc but I'm not as I don't know freaky about it like my husband is😆
Well for me I'm married to an American and I'm Canadian. I myself am not into politics but he's very passionate about it. So I sit there and I listen and I nod my head and I say yep, yep, yeah, makes sense, sure...😊 he says are you listening to me you're not really interested are you? I just say im listening.... he said you should be more into politics and then I say nope. That's where it ends😂 as for friendships and acquaintances if we don't have things in common it's just not going to progress any further and I'm not going to waste my time especially politics I'm not talking to anybody about that. I'll keep my opinions to myself.
Friends can have differences of opinions on movies, books, restaurants, but I draw the line at differences in morals. If you want to vote for a party that has an agenda of taking away people's findamemtal rights, we are not friends.
We have soooooo much more in common than politics and religion. I stay away from both even with many close friends as I have a different set of experiences than they do. Laura is right to keep those topics off the table!
Great points…. I had a conversation over 5 years ago with a member of my husband’s family that I was no longer going to be “provoked” into the political conversation which, at one point, I found fun and interesting….. until it wasn’t. I held strong….
Let’s be real. With the MAGA movement everything is different. And I have no problem with cutting off relationships with people who don’t share the same BASIC values.
Absolutely! I couldn’t agree more. In the past, political divides were nuanced with the basic tenets and differences of political policies, now it’s clearly about integrity, transparency, and fundamental values. And, this thrusts you into a place where the people you thought you knew, you don’t know at all. This causes one to pause and rethink are these the same people I once knew, truly knew. Instead, perhaps we were both hanging onto an image and not who we are anymore, at all. We need to be with friends who make us feel safe and secure. So, my circle has changed a lot and I’m happier without toxic people in my life.
This election is good vs. evil. If my friend chooses evil, I no longer consider them a friend. Life is to short to tiptoe around important issues - I want to know who a person is before I let them in to my circle. 🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸
I am so happy you have addressed this very important topic! What can you recommend to reconnect with a friend who is obsessed with politics? Geez...I cant wait till Tuesday is over - so emotionally exhausting!
Just pick up the phone and do it! Put friendship first if it’s an important one. Don’t live with regret. Of it doesn’t work out atleast you tried. Thanks for the comment!
The thing is, usually you can tell a lot about someone's character and values based on who they vote for. I would never have a leftist as a dear friend. Maybe an acquaintance, but would never keep these people too close to me or my family, they're part of the reason this world is messed up.
@@ainihulugalle1195 lefties are the ones not keeping things civil. They always want to provoke you and then play the victim. They desperately want attention, parasites. This is a real example of why I don't keep these nasty individuals around me or my family.
@ also men can handle disagreements much better than women. My husband has had the same group of friends for over 40 (FOURTY) years. They are split 50/50 politically and it doesn’t matter. Why do you think women are so emotionally undisciplined?
I vote Republican and have friends who are moderate but vote Democrat. Some are way too far left. I can be friendly to those people, but if someone is too far left, they wouldn't be a close friend. Because it comes down to morals. K. Harris running mate is so far left. I could never be friends with someone who thinks abortion can be up to the day before delivery. Some things I think agree to disagree. Some things, for me, are non- negotiable. It really isn't an issue for me because I don't put people extremely left in my close circle.
For me, political and religious beliefs are just as important as honesty and trustworthiness. When it comes to relationships, I look at the overall relationship first but then decide whether I can choose to ignore those beliefs and choose not to discuss the things we disagree on or if I would be better off distancing myself from that person. My best relationships are with those who have similar beliefs rooted in support of those less fortunate, a desire to make the world a better place, kindness, caring, love and positivity. I don't want people in my life that lie, promote hatred, racism, fear-mongering and negativity.
Thanks for the comment!
Wonderful insight. I don’t talk politics or religion. Heard of friends and family breaking up over those topics.
So many problems caused by politics! Thanks for commenting
I think this is really useful. I also appreciate your diplomacy. (From Australia)
Thanks so much! Your country is beautiful. Tasmania was especially incredible. Took the train from Sydney to Perth. Enjoyed every moment
I no longer have friends who are on the other side. I'm tired of listening to their opinions while they have a meltdown if I try to give a different perspective. If you can't stop talking about it, I don't want to be bothered anymore. My life is much calmer now.
Appreciate you taking the time to comment. We all have to figure out the best way to navigate tough issues. Thanks!!
Instead of viewing one another as “left” or “right” observe how people show you who they are if they bring up politics. I will in fact sever a former friendship if the person is denigrating one side and speaking intolerantly.
Appreciate the comment!
Good insight and perspective - my friend and I stopped talking about politics until the election is over. It's a stressful and triggering time. We talk about the five trips we are taking next year.
Agree💯
What a timely topic Laura. My husband and I are also end Boomers who have found neighbors a generation younger distance themselves from us because they perceive our position in politics. We would never do this to anyone. Our position is to continue being the friendly neighbors we have always been.
Thanks so much for sharing this! So much of it is perceived due to our age.
When i was a child I was taught that when you vote it was a secret ballot. I have never spoken to anyone about my politics and beliefs.
Appreciate the comment !
From norway you are right 😊
I had always been able to have good friendships with people on both sides of the political landscape because it rarely came up in conversation. I grew up believing that the two things you should never talk about at a party are religion and politics, and then when Covid hit, that's all anyone talked about and I found that anytime I opened my mouth to say what I thought about what was going on in the world, someone would get upset, whether it was me or them, and so that's why I had to walk away from some friendships. I didn't want the friendships I had to end badly, so I quietly walked away and never went back because I felt there was too much water under the bridge so to speak.
Thanks for sharing this!
I hate Presidential election years- it is so hard to watch the news leading up to November 5. I keep my Presidential preferences to myself but a lot of my friends and family do not. It’s so stressful. Great topic today.
Thanks so much. Appreciate you commenting. I knew it was a tricky subject.
Thank you for your wisdom.
I'm Canadian. My own experience is Canadians are frequently private about discussing our Canadian politics with others. However, some of these same people are very eager to debate/ discuss USA politics. I will often distract the conversation because they may become intrusive or intense, even when we are in basic agreement. It's just not pleasant!
Thank you for your excellent channel.
Appreciate your comment so much and thanks for watching!
You are so right!
As a Canadian living in a border province and very dear friends State side only a 20 minute drive away, I purposely do not engage in political discussions with them - I simply value those friendships and do not want hurt to enter them
@brendaphinney4329 my husband is American and he is very political. I myself am Canadian and I'm not really political. Of course I care about things Etc but I'm not as I don't know freaky about it like my husband is😆
Well for me I'm married to an American and I'm Canadian. I myself am not into politics but he's very passionate about it. So I sit there and I listen and I nod my head and I say yep, yep, yeah, makes sense, sure...😊 he says are you listening to me you're not really interested are you? I just say im listening.... he said you should be more into politics and then I say nope. That's where it ends😂 as for friendships and acquaintances if we don't have things in common it's just not going to progress any further and I'm not going to waste my time especially politics I'm not talking to anybody about that. I'll keep my opinions to myself.
Thanks for sharing your experience. I agree it does become a deal breaker when people want to talk about it.
Thanks to talk of this sensitive subject
Definitely tricky but food for thought. Thanks!
Friends can have differences of opinions on movies, books, restaurants, but I draw the line at differences in morals. If you want to vote for a party that has an agenda of taking away people's findamemtal rights, we are not friends.
Appreciate the comment!
Such a relevant talk! Thank you so much!
Appreciate your comment!
We have soooooo much more in common than politics and religion. I stay away from both even with many close friends as I have a different set of experiences than they do. Laura is right to keep those topics off the table!
Thanks for the comment!!
Great points…. I had a conversation over 5 years ago with a member of my husband’s family that I was no longer going to be “provoked” into the political conversation which, at one point, I found fun and interesting….. until it wasn’t. I held strong….
Appreciate the comment !
Very wise words! Thank you
Appreciate it!
Thank you for sharing this. I appreciate a solution! This is a frequent focus of my blog. ❤
Glad it was helpful! I’ll check out your blog.
Laura thank you for your insight so helpful ! ❤️👋🏻
Appreciate the comment!
Turn up the volume
Let’s be real. With the MAGA movement everything is different. And I have no problem with cutting off relationships with people who don’t share the same BASIC values.
Absolutely! I couldn’t agree more. In the past, political divides were nuanced with the basic tenets and differences of political policies, now it’s clearly about integrity, transparency, and fundamental values. And, this thrusts you into a place where the people you thought you knew, you don’t know at all. This causes one to pause and rethink are these the same people I once knew, truly knew. Instead, perhaps we were both hanging onto an image and not who we are anymore, at all. We need to be with friends who make us feel safe and secure. So, my circle has changed a lot and I’m happier without toxic people in my life.
Yes liberals are toxic.. I avoid at all costs
Appreciate the comment!
Yes 👍 like education. Which liberals lack and don’t respect. Such a basic value
Beautiful Laura! I had to delete Facebook in anticipation of November 5th! I don’t want to read or view the impending conflict!
Definitely a tricky topic! Thanks Kirran
This election is good vs. evil. If my friend chooses evil, I no longer consider them a friend. Life is to short to tiptoe around important issues - I want to know who a person is before I let them in to my circle. 🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸
Bingo
and according to you, who is the evil one?
@@annasimons389the adjudicated rapist, felon who calls for violence and simulates lewd acts on a microphone (just a wild guess)
Appreciate you taking the time to comment ! Thanks
@@annasimons389I am guessing the opposite of the red heart
Ditto with religion
Agree
I am so happy you have addressed this very important topic! What can you recommend to reconnect with a friend who is obsessed with politics? Geez...I cant wait till Tuesday is over - so emotionally exhausting!
Just pick up the phone and do it! Put friendship first if it’s an important one. Don’t live with regret. Of it doesn’t work out atleast you tried. Thanks for the comment!
The thing is, usually you can tell a lot about someone's character and values based on who they vote for. I would never have a leftist as a dear friend. Maybe an acquaintance, but would never keep these people too close to me or my family, they're part of the reason this world is messed up.
Oh my...
@susiemartin6497 it must be hard to be you 😕 try again tomorrow
Appreciate you taking the time to comment!
@@estelayer3138good to keep things civil. Laura is always very proper and tactful
@@ainihulugalle1195 lefties are the ones not keeping things civil. They always want to provoke you and then play the victim. They desperately want attention, parasites. This is a real example of why I don't keep these nasty individuals around me or my family.
Hopefully you won't end up with a dreadful government like we do in England! Xx❤
England? But Russia or Hungary, no problem…lol😂
Appreciate the comment
@@isaylook9502easy. Russia and Hungary are definitely better than England
Very good advice. But the person who is obsessed with politics usually throws it in your face. She wants the negative attention.
There are definitely a lot of those people out there today!
@ also men can handle disagreements much better than women. My husband has had the same group of friends for over 40 (FOURTY) years. They are split 50/50 politically and it doesn’t matter. Why do you think women are so emotionally undisciplined?
Too late for this. 😢
The eternal optimist. But maybe within our own small bubbles we can maintain important friendships. Thanks!
I have lost so many friends since 2016 over election stuff. Thanks for your wise advice.
I dont have friends or family who are on the opposite political side. It just never works out with evil people.
Thanks for the comment!
I vote Republican and have friends who are moderate but vote Democrat. Some are way too far left. I can be friendly to those people, but if someone is too far left, they wouldn't be a close friend. Because it comes down to morals.
K. Harris running mate is so far left. I could never be friends with someone who thinks abortion can be up to the day before delivery. Some things I think agree to disagree. Some things, for me, are non- negotiable. It really isn't an issue for me because I don't put people extremely left in my close circle.
Appreciate the comment!
Educate yourself and do better.
Another fantastic message. I’ve sent it to friends. Now I’m trying to follow you on Insta and the link is not working. 🤷🏼
Sorry about that I probably did something wrong but I’ll check it out. My page is LauraHillAuthor. Thanks