Moving Forward

In light of the recent election results, a sense of defeat has permeated many of us. While we were aware of the existence of hate, the extent of it has been shocking. For those who endeavored to act with integrity, grief has set in, followed by a troubling sense of resentment. My initial reaction was to ponder why mediocrity often prevails. Have our standards diminished over time? I believe they have.

The advent of the internet has brought forth numerous advancements; however, it has also contributed to a decline in our collective humanity. The combination of the vast online landscape and the influence of reality tv has fostered a culture that encourages a lack of education and the freedom to express any thought, regardless of its merit, with the assurance that one will still be embraced by others.

When I refer to uneducated individuals, I do not imply a flawless academic record or the mere attendance of a college. Rather, I am emphasizing the importance of critical thinking and reasoning skills. There is a tendency to act impulsively without careful consideration, as society often encourages responses driven by emotion. It is deemed acceptable to seek retribution or to make another's life difficult due to personal grievances. I believe that this mindset, among other factors, has contributed significantly to the current condition of America.

What steps can we take as we move forward? How do we navigate a society that appears willing to elect an individual like Trump once more as president? The most crucial action is to strive to be the better individual, even if such an approach is often criticized today. In contrast to their actions, we should embody kindness, engage in volunteer work, and seek our own tranquility. It is essential to recognize that we cannot give from an empty cup; thus, prioritizing our mental well-being is vital for achieving any meaningful outcomes. While it is understandable that many of us have allowed our sorrow to transform into animosity, such a way of living is unsustainable. I support the idea of distancing ourselves from Trump supporters, yet we must refrain from harboring hatred towards everyone associated with that ideology. Allowing our entire identity to be overshadowed by animosity is precisely what they aim for. A life filled with cynicism is not worth living. This perspective comes from someone who naturally tends toward negativity. It requires effort for me to rise from the shadows and genuinely believe that things can improve. I often find myself on the verge of slipping back into nihilism before I realize it.

Victory is not achieved by adopting a confrontational stance towards those who oppose humanitarian values. Instead, we succeed by extending our support to others, and the choice of whom to assist rests with you. It is essential to find a constructive outlet for your emotions to effect meaningful change. This necessity arises from the transformation within the Republican Party, which has become increasingly radical and reminiscent of drama. The focus has shifted away from the welfare of the people to the pursuit of views and likes. Trump strategically identified his approach for this election, engaging with podcasts and shows that resonated with his target audience. A civil and informed campaign was not part of his strategy; he recognized that a bullying demeanor would secure the votes he required. Consequently, he sought out those specific platforms.

I urge my fellow humanists to resist emulating his behavior, as it is all too easy to become engulfed in such negativity. It is imperative to take whatever steps necessary to detach from the malevolence that surrounds us. One great way is to refrain from consuming the news. The nature of news has shifted significantly; it now prioritizes sensationalism, engagement metrics, and audience retention over factual reporting. Media outlets will employ any tactic to capture your attention.

We do not achieve victory by mirroring their actions. It is essential to release the animosity we harbor towards this individual and his supporters. Change can be accomplished without resorting to hatred; our motivation is sufficient to drive progress. Engage in activities that reconnect you with your true self, such as walking in nature, stargazing, or meditating. We must rid ourselves of the negativity that their triumph has instilled within us. Many of us are inherently kind individuals who currently find ourselves overwhelmed by bitterness. This mindset is unsustainable.

Long before the advent of the internet and reality tv, our assistance to others stemmed from a desire to help. We were not confronted with large campaign flags adorning trucks, offensive bumper stickers, or distasteful apparel, nor were we subjected to messages urging us to “Make America Great Again,” a phrase that often concealed underlying animosity. When someone required assistance, we simply offered it without inquiring about their political affiliations; such matters were considered private. The relationship between an individual and the electoral process was personal and discreet. I am not advocating for friendship with those who oppose fundamental human values; rather, I urge us to preserve our own tranquility in the face of their negativity.

We have only one life, and it would be regrettable to allow resentment to dominate our existence. While we are distinct from those who harbor such animosity, if we permit that hatred to infiltrate our being, it will ultimately define us, rendering our intentions no more virtuous than theirs.

It is my sincere hope that we discover the tranquility necessary to progress. The path ahead is likely to be challenging once he assumes office. It is essential to connect with individuals who share similar values, those who can provide support and engage in meaningful discussions. Consider seeking opportunities to volunteer for a cause that benefits the greater good. This does not need to be a daily commitment; rather, it should be something that offers you a broader perspective.

Ultimately, love triumphs over hate, but our efforts must persist. The remarkable achievements we enjoy today were the result of relentless struggle, and those who fought for them did not surrender after setbacks. While we may feel defeated, our hope remains intact. The journey is not over, but we cannot achieve victory by mirroring the actions of those we oppose.