Election Day – The Morning After

PART 3 ARTICLE 1 AUDIO FILE IN FOOTER

We live in a democracy for which I am so grateful.  The outcome of all elections makes clear the will of the majority of our citizens. Whether we like it or not, acceptance of this reality is our only choice.  This does not mean we have to agree or embrace what may ultimately happen as a result of this decision.  This does not mean that we should ever abandon our own treasured values.  In truth,  it is more crucial than ever to stand firm, speak out and resist decisions that go against what we feel in our hearts are right and true.

However, one must ask, how do we do this without making things worse?  Historically, the world has chosen violence.  Violence and hatred have never been a permanent solution to anything.  Having said that, where would we be if we didn’t engage, violently, in World War II?

Nor, could we stand by if we or our loved ones are being personally attacked.  In this situation, we must fight to the death should the situation call for it.  Sometimes, in a violent world, we have no choice; a heartbreaking reality of our life on this planet.   

Remembering the refusal of many to graciously accept the result of our democratic election four years ago, I woke up this morning so grateful that this time there will be no bitter diatribes, threats for revenge, accusations of cheating and fraud and ultimate attempts to undermine the clear will of the people. 

I believe that our country’s capital need not fear desecration, those in congress will not have to be locked away in the basement for safety, there will be no calls for our vice president to be hanged if she concedes to a peaceful transition of power.

And though there will always be heated debate about policies, it is unlikely to deafen us as the echo chambers of the media will be lacking the boisterous and retaliatory speech that feeds it.

Lying on my recliner, wiping away both the sleep and tears of disappointment from my eyes, I am relieved there will be no threat of blood running in the streets.

I will proceed with my day. Taking a few deep mindful breaths, I recall the tranquil words of Rumi, “the only lasting beauty is the beauty of the heart”

It is from this place that we move forward to face a new, uncertain and frightening world.  It is from this place that we gain understanding as to how to proceed.  It is from this place that we gain the strength to stand firm on our deepest values and do everything we can to avoid harm to those who are foreign, different in race, lifestyle or beliefs or just women. It is from this place that we formulate our response, recognizing the need to extract anger and hatred.

Only this place can show us the true path to a lasting solution and ultimate goal of peace.

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