Imagine it’s the hottest day of the year, and while everyone else is flocking to the beach, David Litt finds himself tucked away in an office discussing his new memoir. Sounds wild, right? 🤔 But for Litt, a former speechwriter for President Obama, this paradox perfectly captures his journey of self-discovery and political insight. His book, “It’s Only Drowning,” isn’t just about the waves he rides on his surfboard; it’s about navigating the emotional tides of life and politics in an increasingly divided world.
Surfing through life’s challenges
In early 2022, Litt had a wake-up call that many of us can relate to. Picture this: he’s standing on a set of railroad tracks, contemplating an oncoming train. Yep, that’s a serious moment! Thankfully, he walked away with a fresh perspective, a commitment to therapy, and a newfound passion for surfing. 🌊 His memoir captures that journey, blending humor with poignant reflections on mental health and the political landscape.
After a rocky start with surfing lessons, Litt takes to the waves alongside his brother-in-law, Matt Kappler. The two couldn’t be more different—Kappler a tattooed, heavy metal-loving surfer, and Litt a fan of Lizzo and NPR. Yet, their trips from Asbury Park to places like Hawaii and Spain become a metaphor for bridging divides, both personally and politically. Litt learns not just to ride the waves but to listen to differing viewpoints, shedding light on how understanding can come from unexpected places.
Navigating the political landscape
As Litt reflects on his experiences, he shares some insights on how the Democratic Party can find its footing again. He argues that politicians shouldn’t shy away from sharing the lighter, more human aspects of their lives. “Democratic candidates shouldn’t be afraid to talk about the less-than-serious parts of their lives,” he emphasizes, suggesting that this vulnerability can create deeper connections with voters. 📣
Unpopular opinion: maybe it’s time for politicians to embrace hobbies? Litt believes that showing a more relatable side can help bridge the gap with disengaged voters. The challenge lies in demonstrating that, outside of politics, candidates have lives filled with interests and passions. It’s all about making authentic connections, right?
Finding common ground
In a world that often feels divided, Litt’s story serves as a reminder that understanding and curiosity can help us navigate even the toughest conversations. He reflects on his time with Matt, stating that it wasn’t just about surfing but about learning to see the world through someone else’s eyes. How refreshing is that? 🤝
Litt’s insights challenge the notion that political divides are insurmountable. He argues that engaging in genuine conversations outside of political contexts can foster understanding. Whether it’s sharing a wave or a laugh, these moments of connection are crucial. “We’re all in this together,” he insists, capturing the essence of what it means to find common ground in today’s polarized climate.
So, who else thinks that maybe we could all use a little more surfing and a lot more listening in our lives? 🌍💙
