You’ve learned something way more valuable than just the fact that it’s possible to join a diverse coalition of interests.

You’ve learned that you don’t have to share a frame of reference with someone in order to have a civilised, informative, productive conversation.

Over time, that’s going to make your life so much richer an experience.

It’s not easy to step outside your comfort zone and talk to people who don’t share your perspective. It’s hard to get over the fear of being judged, or of having your opinion squashed, or of simply not being understood. It’s also hard to trust yourself not to do the same thing to others.

Still, nothing’s worth much that’s easy, and you learn way more by talking to people who differ from yourself.

Kudos for taking a brave step. Not only have you grown as an individual, but you’ve shared your experience to encourage others, so democracy itself has grown a little bit too.