In light of our recent election that has either disheartened or emboldened America’s citizens, there seems to be tension in the air, no matter where you may go. This election has divided us in many ways. It has set people against each other, people that are neighbors, relatives, and friends. So in the aftermath of an emotional and whirlwind election, let us all try to take some time to bridge some of those divisions in the best way we know how: communication about common, positive interests. If you need a springboard to start lighthearted conversation with your fellow man, look to these topics for help. Every kind word and every smile will help us heal each other, and that is what we need most right now.
- Weather.
- Pets.
- Your favorite recipe for chili.
- Weird things our parents say.
- The cool thing you did last summer.
- Give compliments.
- Your favorite professor and her wild way of talking with her hands.
- Conspiracy theories.
- Make up fun band names.
- The wild episode of that HBO show you like.
- Your unknown talents.
- Shrek.
- Predict the next internet sensation.
- The wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
- Discuss the latest Kardashian drama.
- Why you love what you love.
- Your favorite kind of ice cream
- When you cried last.
- The everlasting influence of David Bowie.
- The last book you read.
- Modernist art.
- The fact that no one from Creedence Clearwater Revival was actually born on the bayou.
- Your favorite movie.
- What kind of dog you would be.
- When you felt wholly connected to nature.
- Coffee vs. tea.
- What’s the deal with airline food?
- Makeup trends.
- Whacky historical facts.
- The Cubs won.
- Bill Murray is happy.
- 70s soft rock.
- The mannequin challenge.
- Where in the world is Carmen Sandiego?
- The Bermuda Triangle
- Memes.
There is a time and a season for all things. If you are angry, there is a time for protest. And if you are happy and relieved, there is a time to celebrate. But maybe this time right now is for recuperation and understanding—for finding common ground for all of us to stand on. We cannot deny that this time is very strange and upsetting to our status quo, which can be a good or bad thing depending on how you see things. Our world is being shaken up, no matter what political side you set up camp. Instead of focusing on how good or how bad things might seem, concentrate on loving one another. Concentrate on trying to understand another’s viewpoint, no matter how difficult and different. And even when those times of celebration and protest come upon us, don’t forget we all breathe, we all feel, we all are experiencing life. We all have the power to brighten up our little spot in the world by showing love.
