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Ask Amy: Political views end a long friendship

By Amy Dickinson, Tribune Content Agency on

Dear Amy: A friend of 35 years recently “broke up” with me via email.

It was due to politics, I conclude, although we have never discussed politics in person, by phone, or email.

However, I frequently post my convictions on Facebook. I aim to be civil and to back up my opinions with factual, credible links.

My friend and I have never had a dialogue on FB about politics or candidates. Still, out of the blue, she sent me an email and said, “I don’t like what you put on Facebook and I can’t be friends with you anymore. Have a nice life.” That was it. After 35 years.

I could understand that action if I had pressed my case over lunch or sent links in emails. I never did. I have a couple of relatives/friends who post on FB extolling their support for the candidate I find objectionable, and my choice is just to scroll by and not engage.

My husband says, “You’ve been treated unfairly and poorly, so consider it done and move on.” Still, there’s a deep hurt over this.

 

Your suggestions?

— Hurt

Dear Hurt: You seem to believe that others should use Facebook, and respond to postings, the way you do. But when you post opinions on Facebook, you are (basically) shouting into a megaphone in the town square. Some people may choose to walk on by, but others will listen, pay attention, and may object to your positions.

You seem to believe that your friend should only object to your political opinions if you share them personally. That is extremely naïve, and somewhat disingenuous. Because you two have never discussed politics, it’s possible that she simply did not know where you stood — until now.

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