It feels like a lifetime since that fateful inauguration day. Each day brings forth a new wave of controversy, akin to Russian nesting dolls where one distressing revelation follows another. I’ve become far too familiar with the inner workings of the White House and its occupants — the names, the faces, the firings, the drama, and the endless tweets that seem to dominate our news feeds.
Yet, amidst this chaos, my loved one remains steadfast in their support, seemingly unbothered by the surrounding tumult. They keep their opinions to themselves around me, likely because I tend to lose my cool whenever the president’s name is mentioned. I find it impossible to sit back and listen to the claims that white men are the true victims of discrimination, or that only English-speaking immigrants should be welcomed. The policies that ban transgender individuals from military service, the dismissal of healthcare needs, and the insistence that any unfavorable news is “fake” — it all feels too much to bear.
So, while we steer clear of political discussions, I can’t help but grieve — not only for our relationship but for the countless others strained by this divide. It’s as though a hidden aspect of our loved ones has been exposed, revealing fears around minorities, women, and anyone perceived as “different.” Are they terrified of losing the privileges afforded to them by a long-standing system of oppression?
Stages of Grief
In grappling with my loved one’s unwavering support, I’ve identified several stages of grief that I’ve navigated:
- Shock/Disbelief
I recall a moment driving through San Diego with my loved one when they pointed out a gleaming Trump Tower and remarked on its gold exterior. In that instant, I felt an overwhelming urge to scream, yet I remained silent, realizing we still had hours of driving ahead and that a confrontation would lead nowhere. - Denial
Every new piece of news gives me hope that this time, surely, support for him will falter. But my loved one remains loyal, leaving me in disbelief that someone I care about can accept such damaging policies. - Anger
While preparing dinner one evening, I couldn’t hold back any longer and pointed out that Fox News was misleading them. The response was, “All other channels are fake news.” Really? Is every other source in the world somehow untrustworthy? This realization was infuriating. - Bargaining
I find myself pleading silently, “Please, just stop tweeting.” - Guilt
One morning, my young child crawled into bed and innocently asked why they voted for that “bad man.” My heart sank; I never wanted their relationship to be tainted by these political differences. - Depression
There was a time when my loved one and I shared mutual political beliefs, grounded in a shared love for our country and a belief in the dignity of all people. Trump’s presidency seems to have unleashed a torrent of hateful sentiment that I never thought possible. - Acceptance (and Hope)
My hope rests with individuals like Robert Mueller, believing that truth will eventually prevail.
I know I’m not alone in facing this challenge; many people are grappling with loved ones who have chosen to support Trump despite the evident consequences. It’s a time of unprecedented division, with families torn apart and relationships strained over differing ideologies. Some have drawn boundaries to cope with the rift, finding it too difficult to bridge the gap.
Nevertheless, I hold onto the belief that the tide can turn, and I look forward to a brighter future, perhaps as soon as 2018. For those seeking insight into similar experiences, explore this article further at Modern Family Blog, and for those interested in family planning, check out this at-home insemination kit as a helpful resource. Additionally, visit the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development for valuable information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In conclusion, navigating the complexities of relationships during this tumultuous political climate is no easy feat. It requires patience, understanding, and sometimes, a degree of grief as we come to terms with the differences that can emerge within our families and friendships.