I don’t pretend to understand politics but even I realise that today has been a big day in American politics. More than that today has been a massive day for world politics. The election of a new US president is fairly big news worldwide. The election of Donald Trump is a whole other ball game.
I don’t pretend to understand politics. This election I have muddled up Democrat and Republican countless times, watched many propaganda videos from both sides, and watched with bated breath as each side slandered the other as campaigning went full swing on all forms of social media. Everywhere you turn there was either a #MakeAmericaGreatAgain in my face or a #ImWithHer tweet flashing on my timeline.
I don’t pretend to understand politics but I know something seismic has happened, that big changes are underfoot. That there have been racial slurs, xenophobic statements, homophobic accusations, sexual abuse claims and more that makes me wince at the world we have brought our children into.
I don’t pretend to understand politics but I understand love. I understand acceptance. I understand live and let live. I understand that our differences make us more interesting. I understand that the world I want to live in may not be the world that I am living in right now. I know what values are important to me, what values are important to us as a family.
I understand that to change the world I need to teach my boys what is important.
That acceptance and kindness bring you so much more than hurtful words and violence.
That to stand up for others is to stand up for yourself.
That you know in your heart if what you are doing is right or wrong.
To believe in all that you do and if you don’t believe in it then don’t do it.
That the world is made up of many people, of many colours, of different sexes, of various religions, male and female. Everyone is different, which is what makes the world a more interesting place. Different views, different opinions.
That although we are all different, we are the same. People.
That if you wouldn’t like it done to you, don’t do it to someone else.
That harsh words cut deeper than you will ever know.
That if you lead people will follow, so lead right, lead with love, lead with kindness.
That if you need me I will be there.
Hold my hand as we walk through this storm together little ones.
I might not understand politics and the future might be uncertain but that doesn’t mean it isn’t bright. For in the wise words of Albus Dumbledore
Let us turn on the lights together.
That is one of my favourite quotes. We can’t control the actions of others, no matter how much we would like to at times. All we can do is try to do the right thing ourselves x
I love it. Truth! Differing opinions make things interesting, but rudeness makes things unbearable.
Oh I love this and agree with everything you say. I can’t believe that people chose to elect Trump with his racist and sexist agenda. However, as time has passed I think we need to have hope and we can still have hope. We can still be good people and show compassion and kindness #effitfriday
Oh, this is a brilliant piece! I really love it! In a world of uncertainty and pessimism, this sounds so positive and inspiring. I absolutely support your opinion, Laura – we just need to turn on the lights. 🙂 xx #effitfriday
Ah you can always rely on Dumbledore for some fitting words of wisdom! It is so easy to be pessimistic at the moment but you’re right, it won’t help and we need to look for the good things.
Nat.x
Spot on and we’ll said, couldn’t put it better myself X #effitfriday
So interesting with the context. Maybe it won’t be so dark with Trump? who knows… #effitfriday
Brilliant post. I’m a bit of a politics bore, I always have been since I was a kid (yes, I need to get a life), but I don’t recognise politics as I once did. #effitfriday
I’ve read (sooo) many election posts. This is my favorite. I’m fairly versed in politics, but it’s one of those topics I just stay away from because people get insanely emotional when they’re passionate about their beliefs. You said this in the most beautiful way. Bravo!