A recent topic of discussion is that of Meryl Streep’s acceptance speech at the Golden Globe Awards. Some have said her words were inspiring. Others said she should stick to her less-controversial scripts. Unsurprisingly, this is by no means the first of such speeches made by well-known figures in opposition of certain political figures and their behaviors, actions, or statements. And, most certainly, this is not the first address to evoke equally strong though opposite responses from both ends of the spectrum. Indeed, I would say both positions may be argued to some extent. But I think everyone else has argued plenty… So, instead, I thought I might just write a few letters.

To those angered by this speech,

I get it. She called out the President-Elect. I’m guessing whoever you are, you’ve either been a pretty strong Trump supporter from the start or you’re a strong conservative…And that’s ok! In my opinion, everyone is entitled to their own opinion (ironically enough).And it’s alright to disagree. We are blessed in the United States of America to have such a freedom as speech—one that isn’t simply understood, but is actually included as an amendment to the Constitution! It’s a right that was afforded to us by much struggle. So while I understand that some of you may be outraged by Streep’s open message to Trump, I ask that you also recognize that she has a right to speak out as well on a platform that she has earned over the past several decades. And while you may disagree with her message, perhaps you might try listening to it and those similar to it. Look past the surface, look to the heart of it…I can only imagine that you would hope for the same kindness were you granted such an opportunity.

To those inspired by this speech,

Meryl Streep did a courageous thing. She stood up to the soon-to-be “leader of the free world”. As much as we may hate to see him in that light, it is fact. Rioting, protesting, and throwing temper tantrums on the internet will do nothing to change that. We have little power now over a process that has come and gone and will not return for another four years. What we do have power over is our actions, our words, and our responses to inspiration such as this speech and to acts such as the one that incited it. I invite you to use that. Take every opportunity not to say “told you so!” or “take that!”, but rather to draw wisdom from what is said. Act with kindness, speak with passion, respond with dignity. But give no one a reason or evidence to say you were just choosing the battles you could win and just playing the victim.

To everyone,

“Disrespect invites disrespect. Violence incites violence. When the powerful use their position to bully others we all lose.” –Meryl Streep

Live life showing others the measure of respect you would wish to be granted, whether or not they deserve it. Think before you speak, before you post, before you retweet. Respond to hatred with kindness, to violence with peace. We are all powerful and we can all lose.