My parents and I have always disagreed where politics are concerned. They have long held the belief that going to a liberal arts college turned me into a bleeding-heart liberal crazy person. As they have gotten older, they have become more militant in their conservatism. We have had so many screaming matches over politics that over time we have developed a cone of silence of sorts. We avoid the topic if at all possible. There are, however, regular instances of my mother intentionally breaking this mandate. I have found all of this to be very taxing and emotionally draining. I have to keep my opinions to myself at all times because I am the only one in my family with less than conservative leanings. This is making me anxious and stressed.

Last week, my mother wore a t-shirt that called all democrats un-American. I told her that I would not speak to her while she wore that shirt. She told me to leave, and has not spoken to me since. So many times I have considered creating great distance between me and my family. Our lives are so intertwined that this would be difficult, and most of the time we all get along and really enjoy each other’s company. Since the election, things have become more precarious.

I dont know what to do anymore. I cant keep stuffing my feelings down, but when I express them I am immediately berated and made to feel stupid. I am never allowed to have or express my own opinion, and my feelings on how I have been treated are never validated. I am at a loss as to how to improve things, or how to let it go.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.