🤗Family is who you choose, not who birthed you🥰
Since November, my relationship with my parents has essentially been non-existent, and not just because we voted opposite. This is an issue of humanity and refusal to change one’s minds after intake of new information.
I tried over and over to explain to my mom how things were going to be bad under the current administration. She continued to spew hate and propaganda, despite saying she doesn’t even follow anything going on. My issue was that she would not listen to me and still refuses to listen even now when things are happening every day that should seem concerning to the average person.
Growing up I realize I fell into the hate too. Once I went to college and got an education, things really changed for me when it came to how I view my parents and the world. I used to agree with some of the things they were saying. As soon as I was able to see things from a different perspective I realized how wrong they were about, well, everything! They are homophobic, xenophobic, and racist.
I cannot interact with someone who does not want the best for ALL in this country. My parents seem to only be protecting their own interests, which I always thought was an incredibly selfish way to vote. They don’t seem to care how this is affecting me and the clients I serve, as well as the rest of the low-income populations around the US. This doesn’t sit right with me at all.
Have you ever had a really bad disagreement with a family member that you can’t come back from? Pennsylvania
Family conflicts rooted in political disagreements have become increasingly common, often leading to painful estrangements. The expression "Family is who you choose, not who birthed you" resonates deeply with those who find themselves at odds with biological family members due to fundamental differences in beliefs and values. When relationships with parents or close relatives deteriorate over politics, it’s important to recognize the emotional and psychological toll this can take. Such conflicts often stem from deeply ingrained attitudes including homophobia, xenophobia, or racism, which can be difficult to reconcile even with the closest kin. A refusal to accept new information or perspectives, as described in the article, can create insurmountable barriers to communication and understanding. Cutting off family members due to toxic or harmful ideological stances is sometimes necessary for personal mental health and growth. This decision is rarely easy and is accompanied by feelings of loss and grief. However, building a chosen family—friends, mentors, and community members who align with your values—can provide the support and nurture often lacking in biological relationships. In the current political climate, where polarization frequently infiltrates private lives, it is vital to approach such disagreements with empathy yet firmness in personal boundaries. Engaging in productive dialogue requires willingness from all parties to listen and reflect on new information, which is not always possible. For those serving marginalized or low-income populations, the stakes of political beliefs extend beyond personal disagreements; they affect the well-being of clients and communities. Thus, maintaining relationships that conflict with one’s core principles may undermine one’s sense of integrity and purpose. Conclusively, while family bonds are significant, choosing who you surround yourself with may ultimately foster healthier, more supportive environments. Embracing chosen family does not invalidate the importance of birth families but acknowledges that love, respect, and shared humanity are foundational to meaningful relationships.
It can be okay if the politics involve values that directly harm or disrespect you. Protecting your mental and emotional safety sometimes requires distance.