With the 2016 presidential election season in full swing — especially here in Kansas after the caucuses on Saturday, March 5 — something else has undoubtedly and inevitably come into full swing as well: fighting amongst the populace about whose candidate is best.

This is something we don’t just see within one party (or across parties, for that matter) and it certainly isn’t something that is a new concept. Every election cycle, both presidential and otherwise, people of all different backgrounds, ideas, occupations and value sets throw their support behind one candidate and defend them to the death. But where there is defense, there is offense — and this time, there has been plenty of bashing to go around.

While it is thrilling to see so many people — young people in particular — get excited about and active in politics this year, it is also disheartening to see how so many peoples’ political stances have become less of a point of discussion and more a point of judgment.

The argument can be made that which candidate a person supports says a lot about their values, beliefs and priorities.     However, while that may be true, it is also important to see beyond the politics and look a little deeper into people in order to see them as what they are: human.

I have unfortunately seen many instances throughout the campaign season where friendships have been cut off, relationships have been severed and arguments have escalated into personal attacks; not at the candidate, but at the supporter themselves.

 Who knew that supporting someone’s economic policy equates with them being an idiot, a liar or an untrustworthy person?

While it shouldn’t have to be said, it evidently needs to be said: while voting for a Presidential candidate is an important and serious thing to do, it’s not that serious.

We all need to reminded at times that we are not Republicans, Democrats, Independents or any other party.

We are humans who have unique and wonderful thought processes, incredible experiences and brains that process things in ways that no one else on Earth can.

Politics generally isn’t a place where you see a great deal of compassion and understanding, but the vast majority of citizens voting in this race are not politicians.

They are people with political opinions. This is a major difference that needs to be recognized before a valid and respectful discussion can be had within the political realm.

Next time you find yourself getting heated over a friend opposing your political vantage point, here’s a word of advice: chill out.

Cast your votes, have intelligent and respectful discussions and then invite that person out to dinner. After all, we all deserve to be celebrated and  respected for fulfilling our civic responsibility – no matter who you support.