Grand Junction Party Killer: Just Talk Politics

If you want to bring a Grand Junction party down, all you need to do is talk politics.

This shouldn't surprise anyone, considering the social and political climate in which we live, but now we have the unofficial confirmation.

On Facebook, I asked the question "what topic of conversation do you avoid most?" What is that one awkward topic that makes you want to simply disappear?

By a landslide, the number one response was politics - something we can all disagree on.

Politics has always been a divisive issue, but never has it been as volatile as it is today. There are strong feelings on both sides of the aisle whether you are talking about candidates, issues, or the president.

Gone are the days when you could have a friendly debate or discussion with someone with whom you have a difference of opinion. Gone are the days when you could agree to disagree and still be friends. In fact, it can be hard to talk about your favorite team without getting into a semi-heated debate.

Whatever happened to respecting each other and accepting our differences? Why has it become so paramount that we voice our opinion so loudly and strongly while discounting any contrary opinion and the people that hold it?

The next time you're at a social gathering - especially involving people you may not know all that well, take a piece of advice. Talk about the weather, the problem with your mother-in-law, or your on-going issue with toenail fungus, but, whatever you do, don't breach the subject of politics. Everyone will be happier for it.