Thanksgiving, once a holiday we enjoyed, became a source of agitation and conflict after the 2016 election. Gathering with relatives who supported Trump led to a side dish of agita, along with the traditional turkey and trimmings. After Biden’s victory over Trump, we experienced a four-year respite. However, with Trump’s return to the White House, the state of affairs is even worse than what we witnessed in 2017. While we once again dread November, we also find celebrating our nation’s birth, a time when our forefathers denounced kings and established the world’s enduring democracy, a challenging time. My prediction is that fireworks will be displayed, not the glorious ones we will witness over the East River, but those that once again threaten our closest relationships and instill genuine fear for the future.
Each day’s headlines produce more concern. For me the low point this week was the unveiling of Alligator Alcatraz in Florida, a detention facility to hold undocumented immigrants, most not criminals, just people who came to America to make better lives for their families. When did we become such a cruel country? For administration officials who boast about being Christians, wearing gold crosses, do they truly believe this behavior is Christ-like?
But we have 486 days before the midterm elections when Democrats, if they play their cards right, can flip the House and the Senate, thus depriving Trump from the support of spineless Republicans. Until then, here are some suggestions for surviving July 4th and beyond.
Turn off the news. Just for the weekend. Coverage will focus on Trump’s victories and how the most vulnerable will be harmed. It will be upsetting. Practice self care and avoid what will just be draining.
Call or visit someone who will be harmed. I saw one of the senior women who comes to our Tuesday luncheons at church. I asked how her summer was going. She told me, “I’m lonely.” As the former surgeon general said, loneliness is a national problem. Vow to help one person feel connected.
Don’t debate, educate. If you know you will be someplace with a MAGA person, arm yourself with the facts before you go. State the facts to counter misinformation. You probably won’t win the argument, but may give some food for thought.
Don’t lose hope. It’s tough, I know. But now more than ever, we need people to be engaged. Come up with a plan that works for you. If you can’t march, then call your representatives. Get involved with a community group that holds meetings to listen to others.
Don’t gloat. When what’s in this Big Beautiful Bill, soon to be law, begins to hit MAGA people, refrain from saying, “I told you so.” Instead, model empathy, something Trumpsters lack, and help them to understand that the king has no clothes. They backed the wrong candidate who made promises he had no intention to keep. Help them see the error of their ways and maybe they will join the opposition.
Top photo: Bigstock
