It feels like an eternity since that fateful inauguration day. Each day brings a new revelation, like a never-ending series of Russian nesting dolls, each containing another shocking scandal. I now know more about the White House and its occupants than I ever wanted to—names, faces, firings, and the constant drama that seems to escalate with every tweet.
And through it all, my loved one remains steadfast in their support, blissfully unaware of the chaos surrounding us. At least, they stay silent when I’m around, likely due to my tendency to react like a character straight out of a horror film when Trump’s name comes up. I simply can’t bear it anymore. The rhetoric about discrimination against white men, the exclusion of non-English-speaking immigrants, the ban on service members who are transgender, and the outright dismissal of healthcare needs—it’s too much to digest.
Despite our silence on politics, a small voice inside me mourns—not just for our relationship, but for countless others that are fraying at the seams. It’s as if an ugly truth has been revealed, shattering the illusion of shared values. There’s an underlying fear driving this support, perhaps a fear of diversity, of women, or of a shifting social landscape that threatens the status quo.
In my bewilderment and grief over my loved one’s unwavering support, I’ve encountered several emotional stages:
- Shock/Disbelief
On a recent road trip, my loved one pointed out a glimmering Trump Tower and remarked on its gold façade. In that moment, I felt a wave of disbelief wash over me. I managed to maintain my composure, knowing that we had a long journey ahead. - Denial
Every new piece of alarming news only reinforces my disbelief. How can anyone still support such a person? I find it hard to accept that someone I share blood with can endorse these policies. - Anger
While cooking dinner one evening with Fox News blaring in the background, I blurted out, “They’re lying to you!” My loved one’s response? “All other channels are fake news.” Really? It felt like my head might explode right into the lasagna. - Bargaining
I find myself pleading, “Please, just stop tweeting!” as if my wishes could change anything. - Guilt
One morning, my child asked my loved one why they voted for “that bad man.” My heart sank. I worry about the impact on their developing relationship. I believe my loved one is misguided, but my child shouldn’t have to bear that burden. - Depression
We used to align on so many political beliefs, sharing a love for our country and a commitment to basic humanity. But Trump’s presidency seems to have unleashed a wave of hatred that I never knew existed among those I care about. It’s disheartening to realize that America is not a home for all—only for some. - Acceptance (and Hope)
I find myself clinging to the hope that the truth will emerge, thanks to figures like Robert Mueller. We’re all waiting, albeit impatiently.
Many of us face the reality of loved ones who have hopped on the Trump Train, seemingly oblivious to the wreck ahead. This political divide has strained relationships, led to uncomfortable holidays, and in some cases, even caused families to sever ties. Yet, I hold onto the belief that change is on the horizon. As we look ahead to 2018, I remind myself that the pendulum of politics is bound to swing back.
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In summary, the emotional journey of dealing with a loved one’s support for a controversial figure can be overwhelming. It’s a process marked by shock, denial, anger, and ultimately, a search for hope amidst the chaos.