Political opinions can show a lot about a person. They determine what a person values most and what they believe is right. A difference in political opinions can sometimes result in the end of a friendship or even a romantic relationship. But one relationship you can’t leave is your family, no matter how different their political opinions are.

I’ve grown up my whole life in my family as the political “Black Sheep.” My family and I rarely agree on anything political. Overlooking the obvious issues that can occur in a family dynamic like this, such as a battleground dinner table or a “friendly bate,” which is closer to a world war, there are some benefits.

The first positive aspect to living with people of polar-opposite political views is that you learn both sides of the story. In most single-party households, only one political view is talked about. Being able to hear both sides of every political issue is important in helping you shape your own personal thoughts and views. Although I was the only person with the alternate opinion, I was still able to learn about why someone might think the opposite.

Another positive that is often overlooked is that being around people who think differently than you helps you work better with others. In life, not everyone is going to agree with what you agree with. Even though this is true, there will be instances where you need to work together. Living in a household like mine taught me the importance of listening to others and agreeing to disagree if it came down to it.

The last positive is about relationships. I can’t count how many times I’ve heard “I could never date someone who is from X party.” I don’t really worry about this. Yes, it would be nice to have a significant other who agrees with your political opinions, but I don’t think it would be the end of the world if we didn’t agree on politics.

If you can make it through the scrutiny of having your whole family disagree with you 24/7, there are some benefits to reap from it. If you find yourself in the same situation as me, use it as a tool to grow as a person to be more open-minded and knowledgeable about a wide range of political opinions.