Dear Mary,
My roommate and I have been friends for pretty much our entire time at college. However, I just found out she and I voted for different presidential candidates in the election! I was surprised to find out her political views are so different from mine. Do you have any advice on maintaining our friendship (and living together) when we can’t agree on politics?
Seeking advice,
Partisan Pal
Dear Partisan Pal,
First, I’m glad you and your roommate both exercised your civic duty and voted! Good for you! I know for a lot of students this was the first time voting in a presidential election, so I’m happy you were able to use your voice for what you believe in. About your disagreement, I know that can be a tough situation, especially when you’re under the same roof! This election was a stressful one for people of all political beliefs, and things can get really touchy, even with family and good friends. All my buddies on the Lion editors’ team are passionate about politics, some of them agreeing with me and some challenging me to think about things in a new way! I know it can be hard to reconcile your differences with someone so close to you, especially when opposing sides think really differently about issues that you might not always understand or relate to. I think politics are an important part of our lives, so I won’t tell you or your friend to abandon your feelings for each other’s sake. I won’t lie, it will be difficult at times to see eye to eye. The important thing is that you remember what you DO have in common: you care about each other! This person may not be your roommate or best friend forever, but she’s been there for you in the past, and she’s there now. When you two are together, remember all the good times, and being kind and compassionate will be so much easier. It might be wise to also spend some time with other, more like-minded friends of yours to create some balance in your life. It’s hard to be around such fundamentally different opinions all the time, but you also don’t want your circle to be an echo chamber of what you already believe. Balance is key. With your roommate, I suggest just keeping the respect and admiration you’ve always had for her in mind when you interact. If this friendship isn’t meant to be, or if your opinions are just too different to agree-to-disagree, it will dissolve on its own. No need to push anyone you care about out of your life. Hang in there!
With love,
Ms. Mary Mount
Whether you’re struggling with friendships, campus life, or anything else, just ask Ms. Mary Mount! She’s a lion cub who’s wise beyond her years, and a huge fan of anything LMU. Your submission will be anonymous and Mary will publish her response on the site!
Requests for advice can be sent to Mary’s email: msmary.mount@gmail.com
Love you lots, lions!
