2016 may be behind us, but the we are going to be getting a bit of a 2016 hangover in 2017 when it comes to politics. However, unlike a regular hangover there is no household remedy to combat it. All we have at the end of the day is each other. The scary part of that statement is that as a country, we couldn't be further apart. The last time this country was this up in arms about certain flags, fear, and racism, we were in the freakin' Civil War.
I can't wake up in the morning without seeing Trump plastered on my social media timelines. Mostly, because he tweets something that incites a reaction on the daily. However, with the very thin skin of Trump comes the very thin skin of his haters and supporters. I have seen so many verbal shots being taken on both sides and I have seen actual violence break out because of differing viewpoints. I am at the point where I must urge a cease and desist to everyone.
Yes, I know the man who will be living in the White House or continue living in Trump Tower, it isn't quite clear, is a controversial figure. Some fear him, some love him. However, the idea of inciting a Cold War within this country will do us no good. It will only drive us further apart into a darker abyss as a country. Nothing will be accomplished, we will be stuck in the same spot and the urge to kill will continue to rise. My plea to you all is to act like adults. It's that simple. I get that that statement may be ironic considering the man who will be leading this country acts like a plastic putting names in his burn book. However, we should learn individuality and lead by our own example.
Meaning, if you see a post on your timeline that doesn't line up with your beliefs, ignore it. That is their platform, they can say what they wish on it. If someone comments violating content on your post, don't indulge them and start a fight; block 'em. Your social media platform is like your house. Someone commenting on your post, stirring up trouble, is like somebody yelling at you through your window. If somebody is doing that do you walk outside and hit them with a frying pan landing you both in prison? No, you slam that window shut. Humans, by nature, are confrontational figures. We are always seeking self-validation at every turn. We always have to be right even when we are wrong. Fight that urge in this scenario. It'll take you nowhere.
While we are playing nice, we must also come together in keeping our president in check. This does not have to be us vs. him or a us vs. you type of deal for 4 years. We must listen and watch what he does very closely. If he screws up, we must all hold his feet to the fire and hold him accountable. Even his supporters must take part in this. One must understand that some of his policies will effect your fellow citizens very negatively and they have legit reason to be concerned. Place your own beliefs and desires aside and try to help out your neighbor. That's what a good person would do. Don't let him get away with saying such stupid crap or try to do something damaging. Otherwise, he won't learn and he won't get better as a president. On the flip side, if he does something really good for this country. Praise him. Even if you can't stand his guts, praise him if he gets something right. That will help him find focus in the right areas. He is a man who needs guidance and we all screaming together would help him hear the American people clearly.
This really should be common sense, but it seems that 2016 targeted common sense as well. I know the past election season was very heated and very ugly. It was downright brutal at many points and it left us a country divided. I have made my New Years Resolution to do everything I can to bridge the gap between people. To help, bring us back together. American's usually come together when facing severe tragedy. In the wake of Pearl Harbor and 9/11, we came together and brought out the very best in each other. That is what being American should be about. Coming together and being the very best we can possibly be. Extending a hand to someone who needs that hand to pick them up. Not sucker punch them for some sense of self-gratification. We must come to the realization that Trump is our President. There is not a single thing that can un-do that or his supporters can do.
End of the day, good or bad presidency, we have each other. We as a people have the power to start a pretty big fire. However, we also have the power and privilege to put out that fire. Stopping creating conflict with each other. Understand that people were born with different beliefs and ideas and they have the right to maintain that. If you disagree with it for whatever reason, that is not your place to try and change them or belittle them. All you can do is know your own truth and live by it. As long as you are happy and letting your thoughts be known in a peaceful and intelligent manor, the people you chose to kick it with will flock to you. I'm not saying homosexuals should break bread with homophobes. I'm saying avoid confrontation with each other, because attacking each other it only hurts both your cause. Don't stop fighting for what you believe. Just do it the proper way.
