On November 8th

November 8th, 2016 is the day that Americans have been anticipating for the past year and a half. We have been anticipating this day because we finally get to see which one of the two evils gets into the Oval office. However, this day will probably destroy friendships, possibly marriages, and more depending on who gets elected. I have a message for the people of America for November 8th:

If you voted, you did your part as an American citizen, and either helped who either got into office or you voiced your opinion. If you didn't vote, you do not get to celebrate nor complain. Whether you did either one or the other, someone will end up in that office. And it is not worth destroying relationships over.

If this election has taught me one thing, it is that we need to be a more united group. Yes, politics are vital and does affect your everyday life, however, it is more important to learn how to listen to others and maintain a calm, respectful demeanor to the opposition. The cold truth is, we are going to have to live as neighbors regardless of who is president. When national disasters, personal travesties, or when communities need help, we still need to be able to come together and be stronger no matter who we voted for. I would still give the clothes off of my back to help someone, no matter if they voted for Trump, Clinton or even Johnson.

The hostility from both sides is frustrating and sad. Trump supporters are loud and violent but to be fair, so are Clinton supporters. From my experience, I have received more hostility from Clinton supporters because it does not appear I am bending over backward for her. I get disapproving looks from Trump supporters because I am not holding a sign that says "Women for Trump," but they typically leave me be. When I decide to talk politics with someone, it is because I know that we both can sit and listen to each other with respect. I have many friends on the Trump side and Clinton side. I may disagree with both sides and what they say but, I respect them still.

I am anxious for November 8th, but I'm also scared. I see such hostility over this subject that it makes me wonder if this country that has created many strides of unity over the eight years will just become discombobulated in beliefs over politics. To me personally, it is not worth it. We need to remain stronger than ever because that is how America get's things accomplished. When the Pulse shooting happened this past summer, I saw so much unity from the LGBTQ community and supporters of the community but also Christians and others who would usually not voice their support. When we can unite over something like the LGBTQ community, regardless if you are in support of their equal rights or you are just a right person who believes that there is no reason that 51 people should be innocently shot, we were united despite our backgrounds and beliefs. We came together for the better of the country.

It takes courage to stand up for the greater good, despite your beliefs. That is why I am asking you, as an American citizen to another one, staying united with your family, friends, etc. despite who is elected. We are the people who voted for Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton in the primaries. America as a country needs to be united from the bible belt all the way to the Canadian border no matter who is elected. This country's progress from President Obama will only go backward if we decide to let whoever is the new POTUS ruin relationships. Be the bigger person and others will soon follow you. It is more important to be together through not just the good and the achievement of this country, but also the severe obstacles we must go through. No matter who is the next president, we can ruin this country faster as separate groups than any person in the office.