Here is a list of things I will assume about you based on your vote:
1. You are registered to vote.
2. You are at least 18 years of age.
3. You are a citizen of the United States.
Contrary to popular belief, I do not think that everyone that voted for Trump is a racist, sexist, bigoted idiot. So I apologize if that's the direction you were expecting this article to go. The man has done and said some terrible things -- don't get me wrong -- but voting for him does not equal support for those things. Also, it definitely does not reflect on the voter's own character. It'd be crazy to think our morals and how people view us were based solely one who we voted for to be president. We, as human beings, are so much more than that. We each have the power to be our own person, treat others with kindness, and help our communities regardless of who is in charge of our country.
I refuse to judge anyone's character based on their political views. Period. It's one of the saddest things to me, that people let politics get in the way of their relationship with others. Our daily lives are not centered around our political beliefs, and I promise it's possible to be friends with someone with opposing viewpoints.
When you have a choice between two individuals, it is highly unlikely that you agree with everything that they have ever done in their lives. Neither Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton have a spotless record, or a scandal-free past. Many of us can agree that this election was a choice between the lesser of two evils. So what is the point of condemning others, and ripping each other apart based on which one we chose? Some portion of the population would have been disappointed no matter which way the election went. This is cliche, but we truly do need to come together and respect each other if we want to see this country thrive and not be destroyed by hate.
I have seen countless people saying things like "If you voted for Trump, we can't be friends anymore" or "Unfollow me right now if you voted for Trump". Nine times out of ten, the people saying these things are the same ones who encouraged everyone to go out and vote, regardless of who you were voting for. We should be celebrating the fact that we have the freedom and ability to have own our voice in this country. And if we are unhappy with the direction it is going, we have the ability to peacefully protest or take action in order to change it.
So whether you voted for Clinton or for Trump, just know that your opinions are valid and heard. And to my friends and family, know that I won't love you any less no matter your political opinion. Peace and blessings.
