The Bluebird of Happiness

The proverbial “they” say opposites attract. Most couples have differing attitudes on a variety of subjects. For example, my husband enjoys ultimate fighting and I don’t. He can’t stand pumpkin-flavored treats, while I love pumpkin pie/ice cream/coffee.

These aren’t deal-breaker issues by any means, but what happens when politics collide?

This subject is popping up in articles all over the Internet. Writers are weighing-in with their opinions and suggestions.

For me, politics and religion came up almost immediately when I met my husband. As a divorcee, I knew finding a mate with similar views was important to me. I’m a liberal and my ex was a mega-liberal; it didn’t work. Likewise, I knew getting involved with a staunch conservative wouldn’t be a good fit either.

We went into our marriage knowing that we agreed on ideas and beliefs that were important to us. That doesn’t mean we don’t differ every now and a again - but we (mostly) see eye to eye.

For some couples, different political views gives married life an added spice. Maybe they don’t talk politics or perhaps politics aren’t important. I have married friends whom agree “on the important issues,” but don’t agree on much else. Some of these friends are self-proclaimed “drama queens” and aren’t happy without a “good conflict.”

Ultimately, it’s about knowing what works best for you.

If the election has you and your spouse at each other’s throats, remember the following:

1. Don’t let your attacks become personal. You don’t want to be in the dog house over who you think belongs in the White House.

2. Use political discussions to learn about your spouse or issues, not to win a fight. In the end, politics can’t be categorized into “which party is correct;” it’s about opinions.

3. Know your limits. If it gets too heated, take some time out to regroup. Sometimes, you have to draw the line in the sand and respect your (or your spouse’s) boundaries.

4. Remember to have fun with the election. There’s likely some common ground or you wouldn’t have married one another. Find humor in the situation and temper your discussion with love.

Oh yea - and don’t forget to vote Tuesday (if you haven’t voted early)!

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