Conservative and liberal students can be friends

Can a political conservative be friends with people who think differently? Of course! We might not be able to agree on a lot of issues, but that doesn’t mean we don’t have anything in common.

Did you know that despite our political and moral differences, we might both like the same fandoms, or maybe even the same kind of music? I consider myself a Christian conservative, but I absolutely adore my atheist and liberal friends. I’m also interested in other things besides politics. I love music and I’m a huge geek. I love to drink Starbucks and go to Chick-Fil-A. I love musicals, such as “Hamilton” and “Dear Evan Hansen.” I also enjoy television shows like “The Flash” and “Riverdale.” I’ve completed all 10 seasons of “FRIENDS.” I love band, orchestra, and choir. I couldn’t imagine myself playing music without being in a group. If you are a liberal or are on the fence on some issues, can you also agree that you might have some things in common with me and other conservatives?

Over the last four years, I’ve noticed significant national division between American citizens on controversial issues. I understand that we don’t and won’t agree with each other on certain issues. That’s okay.

I understand that it may be difficult to put moral differences aside. However, it is an amazing advantage to be friends with people of different backgrounds and beliefs. It may be easier to be friends with those who share your ideology. However, you can get a broader understanding of people’s beliefs when you befriend people that think differently than you do.

Agree or disagree—we can still be friends. We can drop the subject of politics and start geeking out over our favorite television show or musical. Maybe we can even start talking about the latest game we’ve gotten into and absolutely love.

If we cannot become friends with those who have different beliefs, how can we unify our nation? The unification of a nation begins with the relationships among its citizens. Our country is easier to conquer when we are divided. When will we bridge the gap between conservatives and liberals and finally come together and save America?