This will be short. I have a request and I am looking for input for a future column.
First, some background: In my writing, I have witnessed the current state of political parties in America, how partisanship seems ever-growing, and its effect on personal and business relationships. Families and friendships often seem party-dependent, and respect for one another seems to be waning.
For many years, I was a Republican, in a Democrat-dominant family. We disagreed a lot. We discussed issues, sometimes loudly, but almost always respectfully. And we loved one another.
Today feels different, at least sometimes.
In today’s “news” cycle, it is easy to find support for whatever political view we currently hold. And, with social media spoon-feeding us topics that support our already-formed views, many of us seem to dig in a little harder, which may impact our friendships, our family interactions, and our business relationships.
So, this is my request.
If you have had any relationships impacted by current political issues, email me at (rantsbymac@gmail.com). Tell me what caused the changes, and the current status, or your plans going forward. If there has been no impact, share that.
I hope to compile what you provide (I may share your words, but I will NOT share your name) and explore the results in a future column. Maybe this exercise will give a little more insight into why issues today seem more heated, more divisive than in the past. Maybe we can uncover some potential resolutions.
After all, shouldn’t we be able to disagree without being disagreeable?
Please don’t read partisanship into this request. It’s not meant to be red or blue, left or right. It’s meant to go beyond that. This is an issue that can affect many of us, no matter which direction you lean. Or maybe it doesn’t – let me know.
If you have a story to tell, please tell it. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts.
Thank you in advance. rantsbymac@gmail.com
Curt MacRae is a resident of Coldwater, MI and publishes opinion columns regularly.
To be notified by email when a column is published, or to offer feedback: rantsbymac@gmail.com
I can’t imagine many people that politics or religion haven’t affected friendships, family or relationships with co-workers. I guess how it’s handled will show your maturity, and willingness to accept other opinions without tearing into someone. We learn from listening… not speaking loudly!