WDIV's Guy Gordon
WDIV's Guy Gordon
This was a messier presidential election than most and the fallout is felt. Some friendships and romantic relationships between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton supporters have been strained, and in some instances, they've ended. Some people on Facebook have defriended Trump voters.
WDIV's Guy Gordon offers calm advice in these turbulent times in a Facebook post we share with his permission.
I'm observing people ending lifelong friendships over this election. So please allow me to make a plea for civility, understanding, and good will.
To Trump supporters: Acknowledge he's a deeply flawed man who said some horrible things. Don't gloat. Reach out to friends who aren't like-minded. Let them express their concerns and fears, because they are very real to them. Offer understanding and support as you would with any challenge they may face. Remind them that a vote doesn't define you or your character and that politics is not the foundation of your friendship....love, mutual respect, and shared memories are at the heart and remain unchanged.
To Clinton supporters: Don't ascribe Trumps's worst statements or impulses to your friends or assume their vote was an endorsement of them. Remember why you were friends in the first place--- because they are kind, generous, are concerned for your welfare, and have demonstrated those qualities and concerns over the life of your friendship. Does a vote wipe that away? Does it define them as a bigot when you know their true character? Reach out. Express your disappointment, but seek to understand rather than condemn.
We all love this country. We have differing ideas on the path to a better America. But as friends, we are stronger and smarter people if we listen to those we care about, rather than cutting bonds forged over many years.
