We have about 24 hours before we discover who our next President will be.
Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton - neither candidate seems too appealing, but no one can deny that the campaign trial has been entertaining. If you have already voted early, great! You've done your duty as a citizen. If you haven't voted yet, please do so! Even if you cannot identify with either of the presidential candidates, local elections are just as important, and your vote is more likely to make a difference in those.
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At this point in the Presidential election, it really is anybody's game.
If you have already voted, it is time to stop obsessing over the election and let what happens happen. There is nothing else you can do but wait for the victor to be announced. So instead of waiting anxiously by the television (or, if you're like my family - yelling at the television), do something productive instead.
Here's a list of 15 things to do instead of obsessing over the election:
1. Compliment a stranger
2. Go for a walk
3. Volunteer
4. Clean the house
5. Donate old clothing / furniture to a local charity
6. Call your grandma / mother / dad / best friend and have a chat
7. Read a book
8. Write a book
9. Experiment in the kitchen
10. Practice a new skill
11. Play with your dog / cat / turtle
12. Watch a documentary
13. Check out the Super Moon
14. Count how much change you have floating around the house
15. Tell your family that you love them
Do not let this election make you forget what is actually important in your life - family, friends, faith. Step back from the shitstorm that is social media this week and spend time with the people you love. You do not need to read your uncle's slightly racist Facebook rant or your 12-year-old niece's uneducated tweets about feminism to understand the election. Do yourself a favor and take a hiatus from social media.
Though this election has been fueled by hatred, fear, and greed, do not let it cast a shadow over the beauty of this country. As Americans, we often take our rights for granted. Reflect how lucky we are to be able to express our frustrations with the government, a right many others do not enjoy. Even though we may not have liked our candidates, we are so lucky to have a choice in our leadership, unlike many dictatorships.
You can do little to control the outcome of tomorrow's election, but you can control your reaction to it. If your candidate wins, accept the win graciously. If your candidate loses, accept the loss graciously. If you really want to make a difference in this country, start by making a difference in your local community.
Shakespeare once said, "How far that little candle throws its beams! So shines a good deed in a naughty world."
Instead of spreading hate this election cycle, do something that spreads joy and love instead. Serve others, offer to help someone in need, donate unused items - be a light in this world of darkness.
Alternatively, you could move to New Zealand. It's as beautiful as Australia, but without any native deadly species! Bon voyage!
