Each and every day we wake up to find that the negativity in the world has multiplied. Wars, bigotry, millions living as refugees or without access to food and clean water. So many of us are seized with fear; the political climate is scary by itself. We are facing a historic election that has left many of us devoid of hope. The platform of one candidate is based in hatred and fear, while the other's lacks honesty.
Based on the messages we are fed through the media and the actual soundbites from politicians on either side, it makes sense that so many feel powerless. It makes sense that we should be afraid of what the world has become.
But, what we have all largely forgotten is the power of kindness to overcome hate, the power of love to overcome fear. When the people are afraid they will go along with whatever they perceive as protective to them. From the government's perspective, that makes us easier to control.
We are electing a figurehead for America, yes. We are relying on them to implement policy that will empower us regardless of who we are, regardless of our situations.
No elected official can give you the power that is already within you. For a moment, forget about all of the things in the world that seem to be out of your control. Instead, think about what you possess that could make a positive change.
Maybe it means speaking up for someone who is the recipient of harassment. Maybe it means using your influence to promote the things that bring you joy through music or poetry. Everyone has something that is uniquely theirs: something that they can contribute to the world to make it a more beautiful place.
Government is just a structure that is in place to maintain order, and it has a long history of corruption.
Individuals have more tools now than ever before to begin movements and make a difference. Don't let any politician tell you who you are or what you can have: go out and get it for yourself and encourage everyone you know to do the same.
There is nothing as empowering as standing strong for what you believe in in the face of those that benefit from your complacency.
