This past election season has been a huge struggle for me. I grew up in a conservative household with many Republican values. However, as I grow older, I have started to see some things as a liberal. But I didn’t fully support Trump or Hillary Clinton. While everyone was sharing their views, I refrained because I wasn’t completely sure what I stood for in many issues. When people asked me, I labeled myself as a Republican, but with this past election, that brought plenty of backlash. Just because I am Republican doesn’t mean I support Trump. And just because I am a woman doesn’t mean I support Hillary. Therefore, my vote was difficult.
Despite all this difficulty, I will always choose to stand by love. It makes my heart heavy to see the crippling fear arising in people of my country. It pains me to see hate being spewed from either side after the election results. I would not have chosen Trump as president. I do not support his ignorant comments. However, what is done is done. We can’t rewind time and redo the election. Trump is president, and those who feel oppressed should now stand even stronger.
Yes, I am a white Christian who grew up in a financially stable household. I understand many people had it worse than me and still do. At this point in my life, though, I have many Muslim, black, LGBTQ, and female friends living in fear because of the election. I know there is plenty of ridicule around prayer in times of trouble, but I do believe in the power of prayer. I also believe in action. I believe in reaching out to those who are afraid. I believe in showing love and kindness to even those who do not share common beliefs or values. Because in the end, love will win. Love will ignite the fire in this country. Love will be the ultimate revolution.
While I believe our country would have been better without Trump as president, I think this may be the fire under us that we needed. This fire may cause people to solidify their values. It may cause people to stand taller and stronger for what they believe in. It may bring together those who feel alone. I can only hope that this election brings about a positive change in the people and hearts of America. Together, our love can truly change this country.
