Now that the dust has settled and the election is over, isn’t it time we all took a deep breath and reflected on our behaviour in recent days and weeks. Did we all conduct ourselves in a fair and balanced manner? Did we display kindness and respect to our fellow humans, no matter what their personal beliefs and political affiliations? A lot of us, myself included, would probably say no. We dropped the baton a few times, we let ourselves and others down.
Making mistakes is allowed, it’s how we respond to these and ensure they are not repeated when we find ourselves in a similar position next time. Life is constantly about learning and improving. Many make it their life’s work to do so, while others turn a blind eye to the truth of their own flaws. Stressful, emotional times like these tend to show people in their true colours. The mask slips and we see them for who they truly are, warts and all.
I’ve been heartened and encouraged by a lot of what I’ve seen on social media and the wider world. There have been a few disappointing exceptions, however, fellow bloggers and tweeters who have shocked me with their vitriol and venom. There is no need for that in today’s society. Measured debate is and should be the norm as opposed to shouting and ranting. From this side of the Atlantic, which has seen its fair share of both, it’s not a good look. Believe me.
I’m hoping people can move on now, bury their differences and focus on themselves, their families and communities. Most will do so and get on with their lives. Those who don’t and continue to gnaw at the past are only hurting themselves in the long run. Anger and bitterness are a cancer that will only eat away at you, stripping you of all that is good and virtuous. We are better than this. Don’t let the past eat you whole.
Black Thoughts 
Dear Stephen and Fionnuala, Thank you both. Don’t Let The Past Eat You Whole nearly brought me to tears. Happy tears for compassion, humility, and grace. WHat the world needs now …{that song} anywAYs ,Keep up the good work. oK, take Care, Peace out
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You’re welcome Jo. Thank you for reading.
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who dwells on the past has no future
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Wise words. Thank you.
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To bad someone didn’t say this 4 years ago. I wonder if all those who yelled canceled others will demand that others NOT behave the same way they did? I hope you’re right but I suspect those that gave no quarter will not receive any
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I don’t know. Time will tell, I guess.
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I am celebrating but not rubbing it in his followers faces. They got duped. He – I hope leaves without more of his chaos!
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We shall see.
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I’m not holding my breath for the end till it’s well and over. What people have done at any point along any political journey shocks and sometimes revolts me. All for pride. All for fame.
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So well said. The pandemic was natures way of restoring so many things. The realisation of how we as a species need to be aware of the little things. Kindness for one is prime. I hope we all can portray a better version of ourselves. Take care of our planet, our fellow humans, and save ourselves from the doom we all know would make it worse in time.
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I hope so too. Thank you.
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Thank you for a thoughtful commentary. We have reason to be uplifted, to feel relief at the election outcome. I’ve no desire to vilify anyone who followed this man, except our elected officials in Congress who know better. But, the way to handle them is to do the work to get them replaced. Name calling is what we suffered the last four years from the White House and if we found that reprehensible then, we should continue now.
I made a decision two years ago to stop posting anything that didn’t forward positive action or inspire hope. It had the impact of me staying hopeful. I also stayed in prayer daily, which I haven’t always done. If there are lessons to be learned, at least for me, it was tests of faith can empower you. I’ve never been more faithful. So, for that I’m grateful.
Now, my challenge will be to exercise grace over the coming months. I’ve already read a truly disturbing post from one of my blogger friends that saddened me. Rather than respond, I just moved on. My hope for her is that she finds her way out of that cult-like obsession with a man who doesn’t deserve her adoration.
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Yes, I’ve seen similar posts from a person which truly shocked me. Very disturbing. Thank you.
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I know which one you’re referring to and it deeply saddened me.
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I’m in the UK but for some reason we have all been waiting on this outcome of this election. It must have been really tough for all of you that live in the US. I saw on TV all the rallies etc that took place. I hope that your country now has new hope, kindness and compassion from your new president 😊
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Thank you Fiona 🙂
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I agree with you. Don’t let your past define you.
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Definitely not.
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It may sound odd, but the best way to convince someone of something is to listen. Calmly try to understand their point of view, then respond. Thank you for sharing the encouragement to engage in healthy communication.
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I agree. Communication is a two way street 😊
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