Reactions to Election 2016

© Michelle Chan

© Michelle Chan
​
This election season has been a whirlwind, no matter if you lean left, lean right, are smack dab in the middle, or just have no interest or opinion in the matter. Most people were so tired and overwhelmed by it all that they were ready for the election to be over so that things can resume to be "normal." Now that the votes are in and the presidency for the next four years has been determined, it still feels as though things are far from being "over" with protests occurring on a daily basis.

---

While some are celebrating, some are in mourning. One thing that stood out to me was how it seems as though children were more aware of the political climate in this election than in the past. Through our actions, the message that we as adults need to convey to one another and to our children is that: All FEELINGS are valid and should be respected, but not all ACTIONS are condoned. It is always okay to feel the way that you do, because they are personal to you and no one can tell you how to feel. However, it is never okay to harm someone through your actions, whether it be words or physical behaviors, Whether you are celebrating or are in mourning, be mindful of how you are treating one another and the ways in which you choose to express your viewpoints. Not only are those close to you watching, so are your children and the children you come into contact with.

Just like in personal relationships, lasting change only occurs when we are willing to open up our minds and our hearts to listen to others who may have differing views from our own. Difficult as it may be, the road to real growth is not to create an impenetrable bubble around yourself to disregard anyone or anything that challenges you or your beliefs, but to sit through difficult conversations in an attempt to understand another's perspective. No one is 100% right, and no one is 100% wrong. That is for certain.

After reading news articles and watching videos online regarding people's feelings, actions/reactions, and how people have been treated across the country, I experienced a heaviness in my heart that can only adequately be described as grief. I thought of my family, my friends, and all of the clients I have/had, wondering how they may be celebrating or may be hurting in response to the election results.

No matter who you are, where you reside, what religion you believe in, what your ethnicity or nationality is, or what you look like or sound like on the outside... I wish you well. Take good care of yourselves and those around you. If there's any way in which I can be of support, please feel free to contact me.


“Set an example. Treat everyone with kindness and respect, even those who are rude to you – not because they are nice, but because you are.” – Marc & Angel