Might be too soon

It’s probably way too soon but here we are.

I have never been an overly political person. Honestly it might be because I don’t fully fit in either “box.” My social economic status is more conservative, but when it comes to social issues I definitely find myself more liberal.

My mom now, that’s a whole other story. She bleeds blue and will tell anyone that listens why she is wearing pearls and blue nail polish. She has always had very strong opinions and been an advocate for everyone with little tolerance for any bias. I am so lucky to have been raised by a woman who can be openly passionate about her beliefs. I on the other hand have never put myself out there. Not until this year.

I put out a Harris sign. Not just a little one, a big one. My kids were mortified. My son just could not understand why in the hell I would put myself out there like that. I explained to him that for the last 8 years I have endured more MAGA hats, flags, shirts and signs to last me a lifetime. It was time for me to have the freedom and courage to take a stand.

I put it right by the front porch and left my porch light on every night so that’s of it got stolen, I would have caught it in my ring camera. One random evening I was home alone with my daughter and some man rang the doorbell. I hesitated because it was dark, I wasn’t sure what he wanted but I opened the door. On my porch was a young man and his toddler daughter. He thanked me for putting out a Harris sign. He had served in the military and was now back home and settling into civilian life. A stranger came to my door to thank me. That’s nuts. I had several people on Halloween tell me they liked my sign. I had some teenage boys skip my house because of it as well, and that’s ok. I didn’t do it for them I did it for me.

The division and hate are what bother me the most. I could give two shits about the price of eggs or gas. I want people to be kind again. Maybe show a little empathy and concern for strangers. Have we become so self centered that we have lost sight of the fact that our whole existence should be focused on love and the impact we make on others?

The election results were definitely not what I had hoped for. My son actually came into my room that’s morning and said, “I’m sorry for your loss” with a grin on his face. Not a cocky grin, or in a condescending way but more of a not really sure how to react way. I smiled and he gave me a hug. I got ready and went to coffee. Thank GOD I had my weekly coffee date to go to. Being around fierce women is just what I needed.

After two days of reflection here’s what I know. I have raised amazing children. My oldest daughter is fiercely devoted to human rights and does not have any reservations when it comes to them. I never have to worry about her looking the other way when it comes to injustice.

My son and I had a great conversation last night about how not getting the outcome I had hoped for does not mean it’s a loss. It’s been way too long since people have united the way they have the last 3 months. If we can funnel that for good and a positive movement, the possibilities are endless. I am hopeful and optimistic. On the way downstairs he said, “Mom I’m really proud of how you’re handling this.” For this I am humbled.

I have no regrets. I have showed my children that I had the courage to have different views and beliefs in a way that comforted others. I will always be a believer in we can do better.