If you have not read Ron Suskind’s opinion in the New York Times, 10/30) please do so. It is an informed and thoughtful look at what we may be facing on Election Day and after. There are a few things that we can do to prepare for what is coming.
Stay Informed: Rumors and disinformation are rampant. Reliable information is critical. Uncertainty breeds fear. Fear leads to panic. Panic leads to destruction. Stay informed and be critical of all the memes and screaming headlines. In fact, avoid memes and do not pass on anything that is an emotional spike. Stick to verifiable facts.
Remain Calm: Maintain your routines. A calm mind refreshes the spirit and allows us to view reality more clearly. If you get anxious, turn off the news. As my therapist told me, “You don’t need news 24×7. Turn it off. If something genuinely important happens, you’ll hear about it.” Find something that quiets your mind, mediation, prayer, reading, walking, etc.
Remember Our Goals: Peace, Unity, Looking After the Vulnerable, Victory over Racism and Dictatorship.
Lastly,
Take Heart and Maintain Hope: We are involved in a heroic moment. This chaos offers each of us the unique opportunity to be better than we ever thought that we could be. This time is much larger than any of us, yet our individual efforts will help shape the future. We salute the Greatest Generation for their courage and sacrifice. Now it is our turn to show the future what we are made of.
Though winter will be long, we will not fail.
Have faith in the human spirit and our inherent goodness.