This wasn’t a “planned” post – rather, it stemmed as a response to the conversations we have been having recently and how much they have impacted our relationship.

The world right now is a turbulent place and Scott and I live in the thick of the biggest political arena in the country. We don’t walk down Pennsylvania Avenue without witnessing multiple protests, and the discourse in this town is dramatically different from any other town in which I have lived. Having worked in politics, Scott is incredibly aware of and interested in the news and constantly keeps himself abreast of the goings-on.

I have a love/hate relationship with politics, the news, and current events. I tend to distract myself from the horror I see plaguing the headlines, but understand as someone who thrives on education and being knowledgeable in order to survive a good debate, it is vital I pay attention. If nothing else, I must be a role model to my students and demonstrate an investment in world events.

Scott knows my interest wanes, but occasionally my stubborn streak has engaged in political banter with him, just to see if I can hold my own.  He has the facts – I have blind passion. It has taken us the better part of two years to understand how to have an intellectual conversation without resorting to defense mechanisms and hair raised. We have had to discuss HOW to have a conversation without feeling threatened, without being backed into a corner when our biggest ally is our verbal opponent.

It doesn’t come easy, and for people who tend to avoid controversy in their relationship I would encourage learning how to discuss issues that really matter and effect our society. Scott used to throw out ideas as he watched the news in the morning, and I would acknowledge but never engage. Now we set aside time to probe each others’ thoughts and belief systems; reactions and confusions.  It has deepened the intellectual and mental part of our relationship – which, arguably, has deepened our entire union.

Every relationship functions in a different way, of course. But in light of the issues and events that have flooded our news channels and every social media outlet, use this time to deepen and strengthen your conversations and I promise you’ll come out better for it.

-Al