Since Trump won the presidential race back in November of 2016, I've been on high alert of everything going on in our country, as I'm sure most Americans have as well. Growing up during a prime time of confusion and uncertainty, I feel as though my generation has begun to understand things that other generations didn't have to at our age. Nonetheless, my awareness of our political climate, which may sometimes come with a liberal bias, has led me to several realizations that people of all beliefs can relate to.
1. Knowledge is power
"Knowledge is power" is a statement I have always believed in since I was younger because it is true that the more you know, the better off you are. Even though in this case it is possible to be in power without a ton of knowledge, I've learned how important it is to be educated on topics around the world, especially in our country. By knowing more about controversial issues, I can be an active member in my community, and that's the only way we can bring about change to our society.
2. Beliefs can ruin relationships, but that doesn't mean they have to
I have seen many friendships and relationships be ruined because of differing political beliefs, which is something that wasn't as big of a problem as it is today. However, some of my best relationships have come from talking to people that think differently than me and have opposing viewpoints, because at the end of the day we still respect each other as people, values and all. Beliefs have, without a doubt, taken a more important role in friendships, but that doesn't necessarily mean that they have to end them.
3. If you stand for nothing, you'll fall for anything
This quote was first famously stated by Alexander Hamilton, and I find it quite ironic how it still relates to our society today. Whether you were screaming with joy when Trump was elected, or felt extremely nauseous about the 4 years to come, whatever you stand for, you have to stand proudly. I've realized that having confidence in what you believe in may come with time, but it allows you to become a stronger independent in a country that quickly overlooks those who are unsure.
4. Having power doesn't make you trustworthy
I understand some Americans may disagree with this, but contrary to my previous beliefs, you don't have to tell the truth even though you're in power. I'm aware I was naive, because obviously many other politicians have lied in order to be elected, but this presidency has continuously stated remarks that have tested my fact-checking abilities. Honesty is definitely still valued in America, but it doesn't mean you have to have it in order to run a county.
5. Generalizations can apply to everyone
I was conscious from a young age of how certain groups were portrayed in our everyday media, but since the 2016 election, I feel as though generalizations have taken a more interesting turn. I have come in contact with people who generalize all Catholics, or even all republicans, but in my mind that is just as bad as generalizing all Muslims, and even all democrats. Yes, certain groups believe in and uphold certain values, but, in our world, there will always be outliers; you just have to take the time to look for them.
6. A few people can change a lot
Just like a few people in charge of our country can change the entire course of our future, a few strong-minded people have brought about positive change to the world we live in. I used to think it was impossible for my political voice to matter, mostly because people who get heard either have money or are already in power, but these past two years have proven me otherwise. These everyday people in charge of the biggest movements ever have taught me that consistently showing up can have an impact, even on people that may not want to listen.
7. Humans are humans
At the end of the day, our political views are a part of us, but they sure don't define us. I admit I have judged people because of their certain beliefs, but I've recognized that makes me no better than the next person. All people are different, and all people are valued, and giving respect to that, as hard as it may be, can bring about immense change to a society that so desperately needs it.
These past two years have been unprecedented, and no matter how many times someone tells me how crazy our current political situation is, I will still be shocked the next time something absurd happens. Despite that, though, our country has been taught lessons that have come as blessings in disguise, even if it took me months of hopeful searching to find them.
