I feel you. I’m becoming more of a moderate with age although I’m not sure I’m changing as much as society. When I was young it felt like there was one overwhelming majority but now I feel a polarity of people who are deeply controlled by different kinds of fears.
I don’t really think it's possible to pursued people most of the time, they need to come to their own conclusions , but I feel confident that if I can succeed in having positive interactions and loosening up some of the fear, and trying to lead by example and not force my dogma onto others, slowly things will improve. sometimes i change the topic and sometimes I just answer questions honestly without the intention of changing someone’s mind. Eventually I think we can get back to talking to each other with a little more respect and patience, but with more variety of perspective and without that one overly dominant majority of mainstream opinion. Everyone has their own path towards understanding their unique reality though so I have to audit who I spend my energy on, some people are easier to build bridges with so I focus on them.
I’m glad you family doesn’t make anyone feel judged for their decision. My family has been the same, also half and half, and I can say the same about most people I am close with.
I feel a polarity of people who are deeply controlled by different kinds of fears.
This is what I've noticed as well, particularly in the digital realm.
I resonate with everything you've said here. When people are angry and closed off there's little anyone can do. Life and time is too short for wasted effort. But we can create bridges with those who are open, and perhaps if there are enough then others will be interested in checking them out. Once they've spent a little time with those on the other side who are willing to hear other perspectives, more bridges can be built and so on.
At least, that is my hope. I really don't want to be in a position where I'm forced onto a side. I'm not ready to give up just yet.
Couldn't have said it better!