spiraling in the void, grasping for light
evolving reflections on the US political climate
Since the election there has been plenty of finger pointing, hyperbolic analysis, and talking head discourse to go around. A little more than a month out and it seems that there needs to be some real course correcting on how we interact with one another as humans.
Apathy and cynicism are tools of destruction, and the current way we collectively consume and evaluate information is acting as a smokescreen for how or relationship with capitalism is making us hate each other so others can monetize off our hate.
Empathizing with others and seeking understanding beyond our own worldview is how we will start to move toward something better for all of us. For some to thrive, others don’t need be in pain or marginalized.
Be kind to yourself and others. Build community and reach for the uncomfortable knowing that comfort and growth bloom from hardship.
As I have reflected on a variety of topics and debates about the election, and current state of America, there is a theme that continues to rise to the top of my mind: We can’t simply agree to disagree about politics.
Supporting a man that has been found liable of sexual assault, found guilty on multiple counts of tax fraud, (at the very least) did nothing to stop a violent attack at our nation’s capital that stemmed from a lie about the last election, spoken of white supremacist as “nice people”, bragged about turning over legal protections for women to make decisions about their own body, and demean immigrants and LGBTQ+ people as less than human not worthy of dignity is a choice that lives with you forever.
Being able to find your voice to stick up for this man, but unable to find your voice to speak up when that man (and others) makes a homophobic, misogynistic, racist, xenophobic, or otherwise disparaging remarks against someone sends a clear message about you to the people around you.
If history repeats itself, as it often does, will that choice be worth it when you, or the people you allege to care about, are the collateral damage that justify this chapter in our collective history?
Politics will do you whether or not you do politics.
Below is a list of recent books that I have read (and listened to) that have helped me sort through a lot and are only going to be more topical as we aim to move forward:
