Forgiving Those Who Dismissed You on Thanksgiving for Your Political Beliefs

We’ve all witnessed it: Close friends and family members who once shared deep connections now greet us with a scowl.

Decisions to sever ties are made solely based on political beliefs.

Many of us, myself included, have experienced strained relationships, even with loved ones, due to our political views.

However, some individuals may eventually seek reconciliation. This Thanksgiving, you might encounter such a person at the dinner table and feel unsure about how to begin mending your fractured relationship.

Can — should — we forgive them for the pain they caused?

It may be worth the effort.

Indeed, it’s not just about the end of the relationship, but the manner and the reasons behind it.

They might have behaved childishly, tarnished our character, portrayed us unfairly, and refused to listen to our political perspectives.

They may have taken pleasure in severing ties, smiling as our relationships went up in smoke.

On Thanksgiving, it can be challenging to give thanks for what you have when you’re acutely aware of what you’ve lost.

Forgiveness can be one of the hardest virtues to practice.

It may feel wrong to extend grace to someone who you believe doesn’t deserve it — but holding onto anger only poisons your soul.

If you harbor resentment towards former friends or family over political disagreements, you’ll only end up hurting yourself and them.

Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself. It allows you to release anger and grievances.

Forgiveness gives you the opportunity to rise above hatred and animosity.

It’s important to remember that while we often focus on how we’ve been wronged, we may have also caused pain to others. Someone in your life might have forgiven you for your mistakes.

How can you be grateful for the forgiveness you’ve received if you don’t extend the same kindness to others?

The heightened emotions from COVID and anti-Trump rhetoric have strained relationships. Many have been forced to reassess connections with loved ones who hold opposing views.

Trying to see things from their perspective: If I were constantly bombarded with negative information about someone, I might question the motives of those who support them, even close friends.

While I may not agree with them, I understand those who have been influenced by malicious propaganda and manipulation for political gain.

We don’t need a political leader to call for unity; we can choose to pursue it ourselves.

It begins with forgiveness — both giving and seeking it.

As a Christian, I reflect on Luke 23:34, when Jesus forgave those who were crucifying him, saying, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

If Jesus could forgive in that moment, then I can forgive friends who distanced themselves due to differing views on COVID or political preferences.

Thanksgiving is an ideal time for reconciliation.

It’s a moment to express gratitude for our blessings and consider how we interact with one another.

The divisive political climate has created a toxic atmosphere, so why not take this holiday to reflect on our own contributions to societal discord?

Perhaps those you forgive will reciprocate and forgive you for not understanding their perspectives during challenging times.

There’s no benefit in holding onto hurt — but there is something truly liberating in letting it go.

This Thanksgiving, give yourself that gift.

Adam B. Coleman is the author of “Black Victim to Black Victor” and founder of Wrong Speak Publishing.