2016 was an interesting, shocking and in many ways, a tragic year. It has definitely been a year where there have been several results which we had not expected: BREXIT and Trump’s victory to name a few. In some ways, 2016 also brought the world together as people cheered on their nations during the Soccer European Championships and the Olympics. In order to reflect on the year, I have compiled a list of top six lessons I learned in 2016.
1. Media thinks hate messages are much more important than messages on how to improve our country’s infrastructure, economy and climate
The mainstream media would rarely cover Bernie Sander’s policies regarding issues facing our nation but would certainly put a hate message Trump had uttered on the cover page of a well-known newspaper. A big role in Trump’s victory is the free media coverage he received.
2. Propaganda can actually control the masses
One reason why Trump received many middle class citizens’ vote is because he appealed to their emotions. He claimed that we have a corrupt establishment, which we do. However, he is the establishment even if he is an outsider. From my understanding, Trump is not going to work for the benefit of the working and middle class families. He will likely continue the corrupt system we have now.
3. You can get away with anything if you move fast in water
Brock Turner and Ryan Lochte, this one’s for you.
4. You just can’t change some people
There will always be that one person at your Thanksgiving dinner table or your friend group who will not listen to you and understand your views no matter how much logic and facts you use.
5. Sometimes things just don’t turn out the way you expected them to.
We’ve seen it with BREXIT, Trump’s victory and many other events. In such cases, you are always shocked.
6. It’s important to let the people you care about know that you love them
Many tragic events had occurred in 2016. Hence, let your loved ones know that you care about them because you never know when it will be the last time you will talk to them.
