Well, it’s here. Today’s the day. It’s actually happening. I’m pretty sure you all know what I’m talking about but in case you’re a little unsure, it’s inauguration day. I will not be watching but rather spending the day with my kid who, once again, has a day off from school.
I waffled back and forth between doing this post as my regular weekly wrap-up or my Trump survival guide (or, how I plan to make it through the next 4 years). I wanted to stick to plans as normal but I also can’t let the day go by without acknowledging the gravity of what’s about to go down. I’ve addressed my thoughts on the incoming administration a few times (specifically here and here) but for me, there’s more to it. ix
And, if I’m being completely honest, I’m nervous. I’m scared. I cried the other day after watching DeVos’s confirmation hearing. The fact that people who hate the system and disrespect our government and laws and are unqualified, smug billionaires who have nothing but contempt for the departments they’re being tapped to run has me shaking. I feel helpless and powerless. But I know I’m not. Because there’s still things I can do.
Read. Books, magazines, the news, blogs, whatever. Stay informed, make informed opinions based on real, vetted, fact-checked news. Ignorance helps nothing.
Vote. On local referendums, in local elections, and in 2018. It’s the best way to use my voice to express my discontent and it’s my responsibility to do so. Women fought, went to jail, and died so we can have the right to vote and to not do so–especially now–is a slap in their faces.
Act. By calling my senators and representative (yes, we only have one. #smallstateproblems). By supporting those who protest when I can’t. By protesting when I can. By signing petitions. By getting involved. By speaking up. Sitting idly by while our governmental dumpster fire rages out of control helps nothing and only contributes to the problem.
Listen. To what’s being said by our politicians and leaders. To myself. To people who have different beliefs than I. Listening, not just hearing, helps foster an understanding and respect we desperately need to heal this country.
Believe. That there’s enough of us who are appalled and discouraged. That’s there enough of us who will speak up against what’s wrong and for what’s right. That there’s enough Congressional watchdogs who will sit on Trump and Pence and his Cabinet and make sure that all the progress we’ve made doesn’t disappear. That all of my darkest fears won’t come true and that in 4 years, we’ll come out fine on the other side.
Enjoy. All the good things that are going to happen despite the situation in Washington. Yes, the laws and budget and orders will affect me and my family, but laughter will not cease. Happy memories will be made, accomplishments will be had, milestones will be reached, celebrations will happen. We will still support the arts and education and everything else he’s shown disdain for. Life will go on.
I wish I had some inspiring quote or song lyric to end this post with. But I’m not good at that stuff. So, instead, I’ll just say that we’ll get through this, all of us, together. And to my ladies who are marching tomorrow, please know that I stand with you even though I can’t be there. Thank you for going, thank you for standing up, and please, be safe.
Agree on all. I want to stop the hate. I will stop sarcasm
Which makes others hate. Even my thoughts.
The MLK quote about breaking the chain of hate I posted on Instagram really made me think.
Happy and safe weekend to all. Love, Steph’s Momma
All good advice – I’ve got a different mindset today which is – he’s POTUS now; I really don’t want to continue taking to social media to trash and make fun of him, but I will still FIGHT like hell. I have zero faith in this man to lead this country and I’ll be here in defense mode ready to do what I need to do to stand up for what I believe in. (And plan on being at the march in NYC tomorrow)
Have a good weekend!
Washington is a freakin’ mess right now. Godspeed to the women (and men) exercising their rights in tomorrow’s march. I know I’m going to be crying flipping through photos and watching videos of the strong, brave, outspoken folks that are there.
I’m glad to see so many Americans feel a renewed sense of making a difference in this country. I think that’s what makes us so great.
Hope you enjoy your day with your girl!
Love this so much, Jana. And agree with everything you said wholeheartedly. I get discouraged too. And scared – more scared than I sometimes want to admit. But putting my head in the sand, doesn’t change a thing. So I will speak AND listen so I can better influence and understand. And a huge YES to enjoy. I might be angry and scared but I am not going to let the Orange Troll and his ilk rob me of my happiness either. Somehow, I think our unwillingness to cow and still laugh is the stuff that he will drive him the most nuts.
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It’s a dark day. We’ll make it.
I really am scared about what’s to come. I have to believe that there are enough good people in the world that will keep fighting though. I’m definitely not watching the inauguration. I’m just watching random comedy shows on TV. I’m stuck in the house because I don’t feel good, which is a bit annoying, as I was hoping to get out and have some fun today.
-Lauren
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The DeVos thing is terrible. I will say that politicians who know nothing about education have always been in charge of it. So I’m not shocked. Michelle Rhee, for example, would’ve been just as bad.
I was feeling really low on Friday and I didn’t even watch it. Saturday turned that around though. There are so many more good than bad people in this country, and world, and we are fired up. I will continue to do everything you mentioned above!