The taste of the election is still bitter on my tongue, and I wish I could get it out of my mouth. Writing about it isn't any easier than it would be three months from now, but I have to do this, right now, on a chilly afternoon in November.
I know a lot of you are scared. I know you've never felt panic like this. This isn't a time to be beating yourself up for the emotions and fear that's bottling up inside of you.
DO realize that this is the current reality as we know it, and the shock of it may never truly go away. Allow yourself to process, and do whatever you need to do. Scream. Cry. Take walks. Create safe space discussions. Play your guitar until your fingers hurt. Write until you can't write anymore. We all have different methods to cope with pain; find yours.
DO NOT let anyone tell you that you're being whiny or emotional or melodramatic. You are allowed to react like this, with tears or anger or frustration.
DO avoid social media and other online platforms if it is too much for you. Facebook and Twitter are still exploding with editorials and and pieces and articles, and if you just cannot handle it, it's okay. It is perfectly okay to mentally check yourself out for a few days or however long you need. Peer pressure is a very real thing, and in the midst of the election results, it has increased tenfold.
DO NOT jump on the bandwagon when it comes to putting people down. Insulting and tearing others apart will not solve anything. That was my initial reaction too, I'll admit, but it is not the way to go. It only fosters more hatred, and we do not need any more of that right now.
DO stay safe. Be prepared for the weeks to come, whatever they may hold. Surround yourself with people you feel comfortable with. Find solace in those you feel closest to — they are your lifelines. You'll be okay. You'll get through this, because you're backed by millions of others who feel this way too.
Please, please, please, take care of yourself. This is the most important thing to do: look after that beautiful body of yours. YOU are your main priority, at this current moment and every moment in the future.
It is good to talk with others and use their shoulders to cry on, but you must be the one to depend on at a time like this. Let your light shine through to everyone around you. Remember, in the long run, you are your greatest commitment. Treat yourself with the love and respect you'd like from others.
