I Didn't Know What to Do Today

Wow, the election results really threw me for a loop. I had no idea that it would turn out as it did. I consider myself to be a fairly informed person - daily I read highlights and sometimes in-depth reporting from the Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Oregon Public Broadcasting, the Oregonian, as well as a neutral news reporting agency called "Ground News". I have friends, including some very close friends, who hold different political views than I do, which I respect. But I did not see these election results coming. 

As a woman of a certain age who has been quite successful, I have dealt with misogynist males most of my life. I've had my share of sexual abuse, aggression, harassment in the workplace and at school and yes, even rape. My politics are independent - I don't want to be buttonholed into any one parties' beliefs. I do believe our country is in a terrible state and needs a strong, respected leader who can lead us through monumental change. For the record, I do not believe that either candidate presented to us could accomplish that, as much as I supported Kamala. The two party system that our country embraces is broken. That being said, I am appalled that our country elected yet another white male with such a horrendous track record with women. It really frightens me that my 11 year-old granddaughter will be spending her early teens living in a country led by a person that many women (not all, I understand that) do not respect. And that is just a tiny piece of the overwhelming effect this election will have nationally and internationally. Normally I do not post political commentary because I feel strongly that everyone is entitled to their own opinion, and I am respectful of those opinions and often learn from them.

So early this morning I decided that, for better or worse, I will simply hide my head in the sand. The election is over, thank goodness, and we will no longer be bombarded by the media. I will not read any news about politics, nor read posts in social media either. I will treat my friends with love and respect regardless of their beliefs. I will not allow myself to suffer with this angst anymore. I will pray to the Universe that we will all make it through the next four years without devolving into some horrific civil (or other) war. Maybe I will be surprised by the outcome.

So I went to the grocery store this morning and bought beautiful fall vegetables and wholesome food. I played golf on this gorgeous afternoon with my dear friend Diana. I went to Pilates to strengthen my body. And now I will eat dinner with my kitties in front of the fire and find peace. Cowardly? Perhaps. But self-preservation and love for my friends and family are above all.