I don’t follow politics.

My knowledge of the political debates and events happening comes from social network and other articles that I happen to come across. I sit and patiently listen to political conversations between friends and family, occasionally nodding at a statement but never putting out my own opinion.

I know the basics and the important headlines. I know the main ideas and the necessary dates. I know who the candidates are, and I know what people love and hate about each individual. I laugh at the jokes about Trump’s hair and I cringe every time someone reminds me of Hillary’s deleted emails. I know names and the relevant background information. I marvel at the well presented and written speeches from the various people. I nod in agreement to the beliefs and doubts. I may not understand everything, but I know what I feel I need to know.

I realize what it must look like, my lack of care for politics and the effect they can have on this country. I have been told to pay more attention because I should be more concerned about the future of my country, and simply because it’s better to be aware. Although I do understand the expectations, I also disagree with the assumption that we all need to be aware of every detail in politics.

I don’t necessarily disagree with those who focus on political standings and keep up to date on the details. Personally, there is a lot more in my life that demands my attention; I simply have no time to sit back and read, watch, or listen to the pros and cons of the presidential candidates.

For me, there is certain information and some arguments that are unnecessary in the sense that I do not need to know about the various and contradicting opinions; I need to know what’s important and what is simply extra and unnecessary. I care about the future of this country, and I know that political decisions are a big part of how this country functions, but I also came to understand that my opinion does not affect the ultimate outcome.

I think we all need the opportunity to express our thoughts and opinions, and politics give us that outlet. We can sit and talk about certain people and their ideas, and how those ideas will affect and change our country and government. Times change, and there is little that we can do about that. And maybe that’s why I choose to think the way I do.

I don’t follow politics because I know that I can’t change what happens. I know that questioning motives and challenging opinions can only do so much, and I’ve come to understand that I have the right to be as aware as I want; I don’t need to know everything as long as I know something, no matter how limited my knowledge may be.

I don’t follow politics, and I’m proud of that.