I think there is a strong connotation around the word "millennial". The word typically conjures up an image of some young, entitled "hipster" who lives life in a thoughtless bubble protected by Mom and Dad or some super liberal, godless hooligans - depending on who you ask. A definition by Urban Dictionary includes the phrase "Millennials are for the most part very deficient in common life skills, sustainability and practical capability". The Washington Post even wrote an article in 2015 titled: "Five Really Good Reasons to Hate Millennials".

Being a millennial comes with it's own issues, but to be a conservative one at that, you're just asking to be hated. As soon as some people hear the word "conservative" they recoil and immediately picture someone like Donald Trump or Tomi Lahren and make the worst assumptions.Today's politics are incredibly polar and many times it feels as if your choices are either this or that. Being a conservative does not always align you with the republican party and it does not make you a bad person.

When I say that I identify as a conservative, I mean that above all else, I believe in small government. That's not so threatening is it? That's my ideological solution to our nation's hardships. I feel that instead of trying to instill incredulous and misdirected laws, we should work on simply reforming our systems that are in place. I believe in the power of our Constitution. As a tax-paying American citizen, I believe in my right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness as long as it does not immediately infringe upon the rights of others.

It is evident by this year's election that our nation is severely damaged and in need of repair. I cast no judgements on people for who they supported and what they believe in, how can we condemn other Americans for exercising their constitutional right to vote? Now that the decision has been made, I think it is time to cut our loses and move on and make plans for the future. The fighting and the violence needs to end. I feel that this election has stirred up a lot of hate an misconception and its time to clear the air.

I am a millennial. I am not lazy and I am not entitled.

I am a conservative. I am not hateful, racist, homophobic, or misogynistic. I harbor no hate in my heart for my fellow American citizens.

I believe in our inalienable rights as citizens.

Love thy nation and love thy neighbor.

This nation was founded on freedom and acceptance, let us not forget that concept in these trying times because above all else, we are a nation united and no matter who is president, we must stick together for the benefit of our country.