We Are Not Enemies

I’m guessing that about half of the people reading this post are not only bleary-eyed from a long night of watching the Election results roll in, but also deeply concerned and/or very angry about the country’s presidential selection.  Others of our readers are elated and feeling victorious.  If you will, allow me to focus not on Blue vs. Red or even on Hillary vs. Donald or on one scandal vs. another scandal.  Instead, let’s focus on what brings us together.

I remember vividly on November 5, 2008, when the newly elected Barack Obama took the stage in Chicago’s Grant Park and said,

As Lincoln said to a nation far more divided than ours, “We are not enemies, but friends… Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.” And, to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn, I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your president, too.

Honestly, as I listened to his speech, I cried.  I was so full of hope and expectation and enthusiasm and excitement for what the next four to eight years would hold under this leader.  It’s certainly not been smooth sailing and our electorate is divided.  My hope for 2016 and beyond is that we can come together as a nation and move out of the divisive, stagnate state in which we find ourselves in search for ways to truly advance our country and move forward to a better, more productive time.

Whether you voted for him or not, Donald Trump is your president-elect, too.  Let’s stand united as Americans.  Let’s seek to understand one another – differences and all.  Let’s aim for a more perfect union.  It’s going to take all of us standing together, getting involved, making a difference.

And, whatever the case, aren’t you glad the political ads are over for the season?  America is Beautiful.

 

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