Growing up in a strong conservative household, it was a bit challenging attending a college that to me seems to be more liberal-minded. While I never identified as a conservative, I often had conservative views that I kept hidden throughout freshman year here.
Sure, I shared little things here and there with my close friends, but even then, there were things that I didn’t say because my opinions and beliefs were not in the majority.
I often told myself I was “in the middle” because I agreed with some liberal views and some conservative views. And I still do. But I have started to realize that I lean more toward the conservative side, the right side. It wasn’t until last term that I verbally came out as a conservative, and honestly, I was kind of scared because I felt like I would be attacked for the views that I have.
The word conservative has such a negative connotation now that people automatically hate you if you say you’re a conservative. Why? Just because I don’t necessarily agree with you on everything? Because there are some conservatives in this country who are bad people, which automatically means I’m a bad person, too?
No, that’s not how that works. There are liberals who are bad people too, so don’t just label me right away when I tell you what political party I side with.
I hate that the second conservativism comes up in a conversation, people immediately start bashing anyone with right-minded views, curse you out, and say nasty things about President Trump. He’s your president, geez, show some respect. I’m not saying that I necessarily agree with everything he stands for, but I don’t hate the man either.
I can’t say that out loud though or I’ll be verbally attacked from all ends, wishing I had just kept my mouth shut.
It feels like I’m walking on eggshells around here. I can’t express one opinion I have without somehow offending someone right away. You have every right to express your opinions as do I, so just back off, all right?
All I want is to feel comfortable here without having to always consider the political views of those around me. If all the liberals get to say what they want, why can’t the conservatives do the same without receiving backlash?
I am in no way trying to speak for everyone here. However, from my experiences, I sure don’t feel like I can speak up and offer the opposing view without risking my head getting chewed off.
As a community, we must make this a safe place where everyone can have civilized discussions and debates to further develop our character and understanding of our peers. We need to be open-minded toward all views, both liberal and conservative.
Enough of that for now.
This is the start of a regular column that I will be writing for ncclinked.com. Every column will go a little in depth about a certain topic and I will share my views on it. This is a chance for people to get an inside look at the “right mind.”
I would like to clarify that the word “right” does not mean “correct” in this case. Right refers to conservative just like left refers to liberal.
Feel free to leave a comment for me. I would love to hear your thoughts, whether you agree or disagree with what I have to say. I just ask that you don’t send me hate mail or threats. Be sure to check back for my next column.
Have a beautiful day and God bless.
