I am normally not one to talk about politics. I'd rather keep to myself out of respect for others opinions. However, my first election has been a crazy one and I need to get some thoughts out there.

First off, I will not say to whom my vote went towards. None of the candidates for this election were my ideal president, but I had to make a decision. I am not necessarily upset with who won or who lost, I am more upset with how people are acting post election.

I've been taught that if I am unhappy with something, I am the only one who can change it for myself. With that said, in my opinion, those who are of age to vote and did not exercise their right to do so do not have the right to complain about the outcome. I understand that as a college student it is hard to make time for things when classes and other obligations get in the way, but voting is such an amazing right that we have been given and we need to utilize it. Make exceptions to go out and vote. Who knows, your vote could have been the one to make that change.

I am also huge on respect. I have seen so much disrespect all over social media alongside the election. People need to realize that their opinions are different than others, and that's okay! The beauty of this country is that we have the right to freedom of speech and opinion, but that doesn't mean we can put others down for them. The person in power does not and should not dictate how we treat each other; you as an individual can decide that for yourself. Follow the golden rule and treat others how you want to be treated. If your candidate won, do not gloat. If your candidate lost, do not despair. This election has been hard on all of us. Be kind to one another, we all need it.

People are upset. People would be upset no matter what the decision was, and I understand why. This is the outcome and we as a country need to accept it. Although it may be hard to think of the good, try your best to do so. I truly believe that despite the level of upset at the moment, it will all be okay in the end. This does not mean that you should stop spreading love and kindness. This does not mean that you should stop advocating for what you believe in. It's time to take away the labels and realize we are more alike than different, no matter what party you side with. This country will only be divided if you let it.

I will ALWAYS believe that The United States of America is the greatest country in the world. We have work to do, but I will always love my country. Be thankful for the world you live in today and be respectful, kind, hard-working, and loving. If you are scared, hurt, worried, etc, keep this quote in mind: "We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope." -Martin Luther King Jr.

I am fully aware that this is an opinionated piece. Everyone has the right to their opinion, but I ask that you respect mine as I respect yours.