Political division can erode friendships and families.

Unless we choose otherwise. I feel strongly about some issues—surely most everyone does.

I’ve been socially trained to stay quiet in order to preserve friendships. I’ve had friends get angry with me when I haven’t said a word about said topic, just because I’m sitting at a table where differing opinions are aired—because they think they know what I’m thinking, and they think differently. This has happened more than once.

This is messed up—can we at least agree on that?

So I’m conflicted. I want to stand up for what’s right, but I also am conflict-averse. I’m a fan of love and tolerance—but also a fan of freedom. It seems we no longer agree on what that looks like. I hate to see people thrown into a category, labeled, and judged. I’m human—I hate it the most when I see myself in the category being verbally assaulted. That calls me to show empathy for all, including those with whom I disagree.

I recognize I’m incredibly lucky to be able to say “verbally assaulted.” It gives me incredible privilege above “physically assaulted” or “killed,” doesn’t it? So I’m torn about how to respond.

I have to choose love.

I have to step outside volatility and choose love. Compassion. Empathy. Kindness. But that’s not enough.

I need Kindness with Boundaries—because the harm I tolerate does not end with me.

I’m still trying to figure out what that looks like.