The Different One

“Diversity may be the hardest thing for a society to live with, and perhaps the most dangerous thing for a society to be without.” – William Sloane Coffin, Jr.

THE LOOK | white tank, black sweater c/o, gray coat (similar), boyfriend jeans, chestnut booties, gray beanie, sunglasses, bow clutch

I never thought I would write a post like this on Pink Champagne Problems. Ever.

But here we are. I’m going to begin this post by saying that I choose to stay out of political talk on social media and on my blog because quite frankly, I am not educated enough about politics. My understanding of facts is not strong enough to make rational arguments. I didn’t keep up with the election because I couldn’t keep track of the mess that was going on. So I chose to ignore it. I realize just how important this is, and I’m 100% at fault for not being more involved. But again, here we are.

That’s why I don’t think I’ve written anything about recent events. I was absolutely terrified of being judged. Being looked at like I’m not smart enough or a good human because I didn’t vote or I’m not completely sure of what to think about the current state of our union. I convinced myself that people would look at me like I was just a fashion blogger who doesn’t care about the world.

This, in fact, is the furthest thing from the truth.

Although I may not know all of facts about politics and policies, I do know the facts about being a human being.

I know our country is not in an ideal state right now. But I’m really trying to look on the bright side of things. I was raised in a household where I was taught to love every one, regardless of what they look like, their beliefs, sexual preference or their religion. My parents chose to put me in Catholic school, and that’s where I spent my entire education. I was surrounded by classmates who were Muslim, Jewish, Coptic, Black, White, Hispanic, etc. My Catholic university was more diverse than most would imagine. Yet, I never saw anyone as being “different”. I work in a field where you don’t need to “hide” your sexual preference because you fear of being judged. I live in a city where people come to because we are so open, so loving, and where your opinion does matter.

Right now, I know a lot of us don’t see eye to eye. And to be honest, I don’t know where I’m going with this. I don’t know how I feel (besides confused). I see people who do make those unbelievable comments – some of which, I agree with, but their tone and language just throws me off. This is what kills me: The beauty of living in the United States is that we are allowed to have an opinion on anything and everything. That is our right. What isn’t so beautiful is when people are hurt (physically or emotionally), put down, or ignored because of certain opinions or beliefs.

That’s not something I will tolerate. And I will never understand it.

With all of the mess that is going on, I still believe in this country. I believe the good will always outweigh the bad. I mean, just look at the protests and marches that have happened within the last month. People of all races, genders, identities, and religions came together to voice their opinions. Even if you don’t agree with what some march or protest for, that’s not for you to judge. Our freedom of speech and our right to peaceful protest is another unreal privilege of living in America. Just think about that.

Regardless of your opinion, seeing the hate in the world has to be disappointing. No matter where you stand on issues, we are all humans at the end of the day. We all deserve to be loved and respected. And unfortunately, for those who say ridiculous statements, are okay with using hateful and derogatory terms, have a rude attitude , and make ignorant statements, you are part of the larger problem.

If you feel strongly about an issue or policy, DO SOMETHING about it.

Protest with your peers, donate to a cause, have an open dialogue with your colleagues or friends. I have seen a lot of good in this dark time, and I really hope others can too.

What do I plan to do? First off, I’m going to start educating myself more on the facts. I’m done with listening to the media and the negative people who are trying to sway my thought process. It’s time that I read those policies I don’t think I agree with. It’s time that I learn how they will not only affect myself, but also how they would affect everyone. This is how I plan on keeping an open-mind throughout this crucial time in America.

If you’re still here, thank you for reading this ramble and for allowing me to open up a bit more. I’d love to hear your thoughts, feelings, or whatever else in the comments below. We should not have to remain silent because we fear a certain outcome.

And if you come to Pink Champagne Problems just to see what I’m wearing, that’s okay too. Just a bit on this look: I’m clearly into outerwear this season, so I picked up this gray coat. It’s definitely a great weekend coat (only saying that because I wore it all weekend). It’s currently sold out at the moment, but I also love this very similar option!

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 photos by allie provost

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