People > Politics

This weekend, as we traveled through Boone, NC; On winding roads of the Appalachian Mountains and past countless beautiful scenes of nature and serenity, I was reminded of the state of America. 

As we were passing through small towns, seeing relics of the past, stopping at neighborhood gas stations where the people of those counties meet, I started to reflect on our journey. Being out in the country reminded me of my childhood on the farm and gave me an opportunity to reflect on where we are and where we've been. As we passed small shacks, RVs, and trailers down by the water, I saw a lot of myself in these places. Though there were many Trump flags and banners outside their homes I had to be honest in the things I admire about the country. 

It isn’t that we agree politically, but that we share a love of nature. We share the love of being away from it all. We share the disdain of the hustle and bustle of the city. We appreciate the connection to the state of nature. We share the experience as human beings with a deeper connection to the earth. I say these things, to not only remind myself, but also remind other people that it isn't about red or blue, black or white, but rather, being a human being. 

I know that I can go into these towns, and have conversations with people that aren't like me. I know that they will treat me with respect. For example, I got a cup of coffee for free at the store one morning before our hike. This is a reminder that we are people, and people want to see others happy.

It wasn't about politics. It was about people. 

So in this season, remember, your neighbor might not agree with you, and you might not agree with them. But, it comes down to our collective human experience. It comes down to treating others as you would like to be treated. It comes down to realizing that we're all in this together. No matter which side you stand on. Together we stand united. Divided we will fall.