My sorority, like many others, did lots of prep for recruitment- or Rush, as it was once called. Looking back, many of these trainings were incredibly useful for life beyond those long, hot days in late August full of cheers and matching outfits. They were trainings on things like body language, telling engaging stories, making a guest comfortable in your home and conversation starters.
We were also taught the four things not to talk about. “The Four B’s” as we called them.
Boys.
Booze.
Bucks.
And, Bush.
Don’t talk about a woman’s relationship status or the fraternity we are buds with. And, on that vein, don’t talk about parties or ask if they prefer beer or liquor. Don’t ask about their parent’s job. And, don’t ask who they are voting for or their thoughts on political issues.
The purpose was that these kinds of conversations could make a potential new member feel uncomfortable. We could also judge them on this, when we should have been measuring them on their leadership abilities, desire for personal development, evidence of responsibility, and character.
And, perhaps because these four things didn’t matter when finding a new sister.
No matter their relationship status, we could still be sisters.
No matter if they liked to party or preferred hot tea and good book, we could still be sisters.
No matter if there was a trust fund or a bunch of student loans, we could still be sisters.
And, no matter their political affiliation, we could still be sisters.
Ten years later, I can’t help but wonder if they still have the Four B’s. I wonder if it’s now Three.
Because since I left college, the landscape of politics in everyday conversation has changed so much. People talk about it so much more. People lead with it. And, I think this really has a lot to do with social media.
I remember being shocked how bad it was in 2012. I had never seen anything like it on Facebook. It was mean. It was ugly. And, confusing. It was like everyone felt like every comments section was a play ground for hate.
2016… obviously only got worse. People made rash decisions. Assumptions and name calling ran wild.
Here’s the thing: I get that the purpose of an election is to bring on debates.
But, about issues, solutions and ideas; not on someone’s character and intelligence. Opinions and beliefs have become cruel, personal attacks. I even got a political text (so obnoxious, on so many levels) telling me to “stand with XXX candidate” driving home more of the “it’s us against them” mentality.
So, yes. Just like everyone on social media is encouraging, go vote.
But, try to remember: Boys, booze, bucks and Bush.
No matter how we vote, we can still be sisters. (And, brothers too!)
An audio version of this blog post is available on iTunes and Google Play from Bloom Podcast. It also includes why Claire doesn’t love talking about politics, but no matter if you keep politics close to your chest or all over your social media, check out a few political podcast recommendations from Claire’s friend Sara at Sara by the Season.
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