The single biggest reason I’ve begun identifying with the current version of the Republican Party.

I wasn’t sure if I should write this story. There are many emotions now, and it didn’t feel right to add to the noise with my unqualified and equally emotional opinion. But how can we ever build bridges and understand each other if we don’t share our opinions (and emotions?) in a civilized way? Isn’t one of the purposes of this platform exactly that — to share one’s voice?

Well, I set the direction of my story in that very opening paragraph.

I consider open-mindedness one of the greatest strengths, virtues, and values of Western society. But open-mindedness cannot exist in a vacuum. You have to listen to different voices, even the ones you disagree with.

The Democrats have increasingly alienated me with their fake inclusiveness — the moment you disagree, you’re a bad guy. My intelligence has been insulted again and again, and I do consider myself intelligent (forgive me for my arrogance).

I identify as “liberal,” but I hate this aggregating concept. There are hundreds of social, intellectual, and political topics we all encounter. I try to form my opinion on each one. And, actually, I don’t have an opinion on many topics because I find them incredibly complex. I’m also open to changing my views as I journey through life and continue to discover its incredible complexity.