ArcaMax

Too many American voters thought Donald Trump was the better choice for president. By doing so, voters put their name on their values and showed the world what this country really stands for. And why not? It's about time we dragged all of that American ugliness and fear out of the darkness and into the light so we can see it for what it really is: white supremacy. Perhaps now we can address it once and for all.

Let's be clear: In the next four years, those with privilege will be just fine. The cisgender, financially secure, white American may be outraged by Trump's antics, but their families will survive them.

I'm worried about those who stand to lose the most. The women and children in dangerous situations with no voice or paths to safety. Queer friends and family who are forced to stomach ignorance and hate. Black community members who suffer racism while bigots feel emboldened by Trump. Anyone who is left wondering where their safe spaces are. Those working two and three jobs just to get by while the wealth gap widens and corporate America cares not.

Then, there are the policies that affect pollution being dumped into our rivers and streams. What will become of our drinking water? Our food? What will become of our oceans? Our forests? Will the EPA survive this administration? Which species will be extinct before humanity can sort it out? Yes, all of it matters.

What are we to do?

On Wednesday, one friend posted on social media that she was making lentil soup. She invited whoever needed a friend to stop by. Another posted this reminder: "You were valued yesterday and you are valued today." In the wake of disappointment, they offered comfort and resolve. No election should turn us bitter, cold or against our fellow man. If anything, the world needs our warmth now more than ever.

This country is so divided, and sure, Trump came out on top with enough electoral votes to secure the win, but let's remember the slim margins. That means half of this country still has a progressive eye on the future.

Your people are still your people.

Nonprofit organizations in your community are still out there doing good work in vulnerable spaces. We are all still here. The country is much more purple than a red and blue election map can show. Don't let this harden your heart.

Be gracious and grateful and use your privilege to help those around you. While Donald Trump and JD Vance are spewing contempt, racism and misogyny, be the safe and brave space friends can rely upon. At this point, kindness is an act of rebellion. Be kind. We know what is needed, and we know how to do this. We have been here before.

Remember your values and live accordingly. Don't allow anyone else to determine how you behave. Don't relinquish that power. Unplug, log off of social media and turn off the television. Read a book, take a walk or lose yourself in a creative project. Volunteer. The inner work becomes the solution. Our country gets better one human and one humane interaction at a time. Focus your energy there, and don't let the hate eat you alive. Instead, be the light that ugliness has to face. We've dragged it out into the open. Now, drown it in love.

Check out Bonnie's weekly YouTube videos at https://www.youtube.com/bonniejeanfeldkamp. To find out more about Bonnie Jean Feldkamp and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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