I took this selfie on the morning of election day. I was feeling optimistic and hopeful and ready to take on the world on behalf of women everywhere.
And we all know what happened next.
It’s been a few days and I’m still not feeling optimistic or hopeful about a Trump presidency. And I am dismayed and disappointed in those who are telling the Clinton supporters to “get over it, already” because I believe I have the right to feel how I feel for as long as I need to feel it.
I am, though, a hopeful person. And because of that, I am feeling buoyed by the good things I am seeing people do. People who are donating more to Planned Parenthood and the ACLU. People who are looking for ways to become active in their communities, to speak up if they see someone being treated unfairly, to volunteer and help in areas of immigration and ESL, food insecurity and more. Personally, I think it’s time for me to step up in my own community and get involved with our Democratic Town Community. To join the League of Women Voters and to begin donating again to the National Organization for Women. Because, really, if you aren’t part of the solution then you are part of the problem.
I am woman. Hear me roar.
Beautiful words from a beautiful lady – thank you!
Well put my friend. An ugly election with a NOT so pleasant result.
I’m also contemplating being more active. Not sure yet what it will look like, but it will be on behalf of those who appear to be marginalized in some form. Our area is so heavily Dem some local offices have no GOP challenger, that’s not really good either.
Your every word.
Check out Kate McKinnon’s cold open on SNL last night. Two birds, one stone. I’m still crying as I type this. Not “getting over it.”
How I wish that your election optimism could have been fulfilled with a different result. You’re right; all we can do now is work hard to be part of the solution so the next four years may not be as bad as we fear.
The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. – MLK
Important words to live by. Doing nothing is not an option.
Your sentiments echoed my own in many ways. I am ready to do everything in my power to make sure our values are upheld. I tried to wrap my brain around the idea that it wasn’t so bad, but that didn’t work lol! Go womanpower!
I have been telling my students (and former students) to turn their frustrations into civil action; encouraging them to get involved much as you are describing.
Thank you for giving me permission not to get over it. I know I will some day but right now I am still in mourning, curled up on my couch with my knitting.
Yes, it is time for all of us to get involved, otherwise, nothing will change.
Well said!
Amen….
You put the words into my mouth that I’ve been trying to say, but couldn’t…
I will not go gently, I will not “get over it”… I will not be silent…
I cried so hard after listening to Kate McKinnon on Saturday Night Live… it is ingrained in my head and my heart…
Linda in VA
Your selfie is lovely and I look forward to seeing many more! Action is the answer.
You and others are enlightening me and for that I say thank-you. Looking good sistah.
I agree with you 100% . And I love ASKatKnits quote. I am trying not to focus on what I can surround myself with and do.
One thing: I will not keep quiet if I hear someone say racist, bigoted, misogynist or hate-mongering remarks or jokes. It doesn’t happen a lot, but I can remember every time in my life that I didn’t say anything…but wanted to. I am old enough, and the country is f’ed up enough, that it is time to speak up.
…in numbers too big to ignore!
Right on, Carole.
I’d be rolling on through all the grief stages except that he keeps appointing cabinet members!
When I’m feeling “I don’t know what to DO!” I donate to the Southern Poverty Law Center. I’m not sure what me in action looks like yet, but I’m working on it.