For the companion piece, “Living with a Liberal,” click here.

I have been raised in a conservative household my entire life. Family and friends lean more to the right, whereas I am known for my strong liberal beliefs. Discussion of liberal causes were always difficult, as my opposing opinions were seen as wrong.

Now, post-election, I have come to terms with the reality of Trump being our president, but it’s the love that Prowl staff member Lane Penley has for him that I still have to learn to cope with.

Coffee in hand, I meet every morning with the politically enthusiastic Penley. As the morning begins, our discussions soon run rampant as opposing views begin to rise in debate.

Left and right clash, but only in the friendliest manner.

Learning to cope with different political views has proven to be difficult, but I am working toward it.

A variety of opinions dominate the classroom and listening to what others have to say has been the best way to understand contrasting viewpoints.

As a liberal in the South, my beliefs have been greatly challenged. The idea of causing conflict is daunting enough, but becoming hostile over a harmless discussion is terrifying.

While it’s understandable as to why some conversations may become heated, hating someone for their opinion is never the way to resolve a controversial subject matter. Although I am passionate about my beliefs, I will never belittle someone who acts justly towards me.

Despite having to work with an ardent conservative, it has made me realize that everyone is different, that all of us have a unique voice that needs to be heard.   

Living in a country that allows us to have our own opinion shows how privileged we really are, and getting to debate and discuss what we believe in is almost incomprehensible.

Nevertheless, coping with a conservative has been challenging. I just remember that arguments may come our way, but in the end, we have to remember that we’re two different people who don’t agree in politics.

Left or right, we are passionate, and that is what drives this country to be great.