Disown Family Members Over Politics?

In this post, I discuss those who would disown family members over political beliefs.

I have encountered numerous social media posts in which individuals claim to disown family members over political differences. One mother, for example, stated that her son had joined “Team Trump” and was therefore “dead to me.”

I would like to think these are merely trolls seeking attention through shock value. Unfortunately, I cannot be confident in that assessment. Particularly troubling is that some publications actively encourage people to disassociate themselves from family members with differing political beliefs.

I understand that politics has become an all-consuming sport for many. For it to replace family as the central organizing principle of one’s life is troubling.

How far will we debase ourselves as a society? At what point do we find ourselves rejecting family members simply because they vote differently?

My children occupy a place in my heart beyond comparison. I cannot imagine severing those bonds for any reason. I love them with every fiber of my being.

I have included a video of my daughter. Most will not find it as enjoyable as I do, but when I watch it, I am struck by pride and overwhelmed by the love I have for both her and my son. On what basis could I ever renounce that? I cannot fathom it.

Beyond my own family, I have many friends who vote differently than I do. I maintain those friendships without difficulty, despite finding their political views misguided. Disagreement on policy need not mean the dissolution of genuine relationships.

To those who have made politics their central life purpose—whose identities revolve entirely around ideology—I say: Get over yourselves. It’s politics. It’s not that big a deal.

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