Yesterday, I sat down to write this post. I got out a few paragraphs about how I felt about the election results. There were some words of encouragement, and some other thoughts on moving forward.
24 hours later, I still feel the same; however I’d like to share a far simpler message. I’m not going to tell you how you should respond to the election or feel about our country’s future. I just have two simple words for you—be kind.
Just to be clear, I’m talking to all sides of this election. I’ve seen judgment from both sides, and not just directed at the opposition.
In one way or another, we have all felt the fear and uncertainty about our own and our country’s future. We can choose to judge how others choose to react to this election or we can choose to show compassion.
For those who are excited about the election’s outcome, know that there are a lot of people hurting very deeply right now, and they have that right. You won fair and square, and you have the right to celebrate. But there’s a fine line between celebrating and rubbing the other side’s noses in it. Show some respect for your opponent’s loss.
For those who are afraid of where our country is headed, know that this same fear is what motivated millions to vote for and elect Donald Trump. Don’t be sore losers. Respect the fact that the other side won this battle, but don’t lose hope. You’re not alone, and all is not lost.
We may not agree on everything. In fact, this weeks election shows just how divided our nation is, but that’s all the more reason to try to reach across the divide.
So react in whatever way you need to, just remember those two simple words and try to be kind to one another.
…just for fun:
