Taking the high road is tough. We want to hear from people who’ve tried it

In fraught times like these, emotions are running hot and political polarization is invading nearly every aspect of daily life. 

The boom, boom, boom of the 24-hour news cycle is frying people’s nerves. For some, disagreements among families are escalating to estrangement. In everyday interactions with neighbors, friends and strangers, it’s easy to be on edge and act in ways we later regret.

We want to hear from readers who are finding ways to take the high road. People who in recent weeks or months have been faced with a choice: dig in and hold ground during a stressful interaction, or take a risk with a more kindhearted approach.

Maybe someone cut you in line at the grocery, and you shared a smile instead of a frown. In a text conversation with a relative who presses your buttons, you let them know you always learn something from them and value their opinion. In a tense exchange with a co-worker, you offered them a concession or compliment that helped bring down the temperature.

We’re also interested in hearing about tender moments you’ve witnessed from your kids, your neighbors or your friends.

We would love to know what happened next. Did you build a bridge, strengthen a relationship or learn something new about yourself by choosing kindness? What, if anything, surprised you?

Use the form below to share your stories, or email mental health reporter Hannah Furfaro at hfurfaro@seattletimes.com. We may reach out to you to learn more. Your responses may be lightly edited and used in a future story about mental health and taking the high road.

If you can’t view the form below, click here.