Snowboarders and skiers—it’s a bit like Republicans and Democrats.

I’m a skier, though not a hardcore one. I’ve heard all the stories about how snowboarders have “taken over” the slopes, making things chaotic and unbearable for skiers. But honestly, the only reason I’m a skier and not a snowboarder is simple: at 56, I was told snowboarding would be much harder to learn. So, I picked up skiing instead.

I grew up in a family of Democrats. Republicans? We didn’t like or trust them. Sound familiar?

Then, I met a good friend in my women’s ski class—an avid snowboarder who recently started learning to ski. Through her, I’ve come to appreciate the snowboarder’s perspective. They don’t see the mountain the same way skiers do. They move differently, interact with the terrain differently, and even take their breaks differently—sitting on the slopes in groups, something I sometimes envy.

Sure, sharing a chairlift with snowboarders can be a bit of a challenge. And yes, I hear plenty of grumbling from skiers about them. But let’s be real—it’s mutual. Snowboarders aren’t always thrilled about skiers either.

It reminds me of today’s political climate. It’s become nearly impossible for Republicans and Democrats to engage in meaningful conversations. They stick to their own groups, just like skiers and snowboarders often do. And then there are the smaller, less mainstream groups—the skinners (who hike uphill) and the telemarkers—who bring their own unique perspectives, much like independents or third-party voters in politics.

But here’s the thing: mountain life, like a functioning society, thrives on diversity. Resorts depend on all types—skiers, snowboarders, telemarkers, skinners. Just as communities rely on different viewpoints, experiences, and ideas.

Maybe it’s time we embrace our differences instead of fighting over them. After all, the mountain is big enough for everyone.