I've never been one to blast my political affiliation all over my social media accounts and I do not plan to start now. I have seen friendships fall, family members bicker and true colors appear in my closest friends and loved ones all because of this presidential election. Meanwhile, I have stayed out of it and kept to myself because I don't think a political argument is worth causing tension between my friends and family. I have heard numerous people say that they are embarrassed and unproud to be an American due to Trump's election. I may stay out of political conversations, but one thing I will always stand up for is this country. Regardless of who our president is, he or she does not define our nation. Our nation was built on so much more than this one decision.

Your beliefs, your values and your morals were instilled in you long before you were even old enough to vote. You created those yourself. The president of the United States does not hold the power to change your social views and your upbringing. Things are undoubtedly about to change, but how you react to and challenge these changes are a reflection of you, not America.

Being an American should never be an embarrassment. The hardworking men and women before us have paved the way for our futures and have made this country what it is today. They worked day in and day out to give us freedom. Freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and so much more. This country has come a long way and despite what your political affiliation is, America was created in unity. No matter who the president of the United States is, we need to stand in our truths, stand by what we believe in and move forward together in unity; The way our forefathers intended for us to do. If you do or do not stand by our president, at least stand by our country. I have not only continuously heard people say they are unproud to be an American, but I have also seen numerous videos of people burning the American flag as an act of protest. Burning our nation's flag and saying you're embarrassed or unproud to be an American doesn't send a message to our president, it sends a message to the men and women who are serving in our military fighting for our freedoms and fighting to protect us.

America was not built on hate. It was built on perseverance and heart. Do not perpetuate more hate than this world already has because THAT is what will set this country back. Be proud of where you came from, where you live and how you were raised. Be proud of these things because the president does not have the power to change that. The president does not define America.