Opinion: What Do WA Residents Do Now After Presidential Election?

What can we do now that the presidential election is over?

Whether you're happy with the outcome or not, the first step is, breathe.

Get up, get dressed, go on with your day.

Whatever the next 4 years bring, we're in it together.

I'm writing this article on Tuesday, November 6th, the morning of Election Day, but I will publish it after we have a winner because I feel no matter who wins, these words will still be valuable.

The political divide is great, emotions are high, and I know it's going to be a rough Thanksgiving at my house this year with all of the different stances. I'm hoping that all families remember that their bonds are stronger than politics.

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If your side wins, it's okay to be happy, but don't gloat & brag. Don't be a sore winner.

If your side loses, that's okay, and it's okay to be upset. Just be careful with those emotions.

If you voted, then you did what you could for now. After that action, the rest is out of your hands. Why dwell and raise your blood pressure on a situation that has been decided?

If you feel you can do more, then please volunteer in your community, help your neighbors, and direct that energy to help. Your local Salvation Army, mission, or humane shelter could use an extra set of hands.

Talk out your feelings. I recommend doing so with either a therapist or to a pet or plant.

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I don't recommend discussing it with someone else because you run the risk of agitating the situation, starting an argument (which helps no one), or creating an echo chamber (which, again, helps no one).

Whatever the next 4 years bring, we'll get through it together. Please don't riot (in celebration or in anger), don't break into any government buildings (that doesn't ever work out well), and please don't horde toilet paper.

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The people who care for you and matter to you are still here; be there for them and be as positive as possible. I know, easier said than done for many, but as I stated above, we're all in this together, no matter the victor.

And last thought, no matter who you voted for and who wins, take your political signs down. I want to see the beauty of nature, and I'm sick of the political season, something we all can agree with no matter which side (or middle) you're on.

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