RE: The Election of 2016

The day after election day echoes with so many emotions, as reflected by my scrolling FB news feed. Victory for some, and tremendous loss for others. Since the start of it all, these candidates have inadvertently touched the nerve that throbs at the core of our identity as human beings. And so our responses are violently emotional, even if they are completely opposite. Nowhere have I seen indifference as a response. With all of these incredibly strong words and emotions, it takes real concentration to sort it all out and make sense of it. So after drinking too much coffee and rushing through an exam, I think I'm finally starting to get a grip on my brain which has been threatening to float away.

Basically for me it comes down to two things: Pride and Prejudice. I know many people look at these words and think, "These are words I would use to describe that person." For me, it's easy to think that way. But let me begin by admitting that I am both prideful and prejudiced. I'm quick to judge and elevate my own sense of morality. I look at people who treat others differently because of their race and I feel like I'm better than them. I look at people who degrade women and I want to teach them a lesson. I look at people who treat life as if it's dispensable and I want to give them a taste of their own medicine. I think I'm right and anyone who doesn't agree with me is wrong. But you know what, so does everyone else. I'm not saying that there is no definitive right and wrong. But judging someone based on their beliefs is the absolute least effective way to change those beliefs. Why? Because of Pride and Prejudice. 

So, America, what's the real problem here? I believe it's time to do some introspective thinking rather than spitting out our first reactions. It's a tough thing to do, especially when no one else seems to be doing it, but it needs to start somewhere. I don't believe that pushing aside people who don't agree with me will make this nation greater. Rather, I'd like to take a page out of Jesus' book (literally) and try out this humility thing. Does that mean I'm compromising my values? Definitely not, as Jesus was able to befriend and care for people from all different backgrounds and beliefs without so much as thinking a sinful thought. Does it mean that I'm going to keep my mouth shut because someone is "not worth arguing with"? I hope not. Jesus spent three years honoring people of every social status and rank with the gift of his words. And his name is still proclaimed today.

Lastly, I'd like to offer an anchor of truth that resonates deeply with my need for comfort. Psalm 73 addresses the injustice of the world and the "prosperity of the wicked". But it ends with this encouragement:

"Nevertheless, I am continually with you;
you hold my right hand.
You guide me with your counsel,
and afterward you will receive me to glory. 
Whom have I in heaven but you?
And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you.
My flesh and my heart may fail, 
but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."

Keep praying for our country. Because it is ours and because our God is powerful.
-M