Will you Choose Anger or Acceptance?

We can’t escape from “election fever” right now. It’s all over the news, social media, and dominates our dinner table conversations. We are surrounded by people who are passionate about the direction they want for our country. 

But what is going to happen after the election results are announced? Will the country become more divided and enraged?

Although we cannot predict the future, we can PLAN for it. 

A few years ago, I was frustrated with one of my children’s choices. We attended a program where we learned about how to see each other’s point of view and respond with patience and understanding.

By anticipating a triggering event, and developing a plan for how best to cope, we were able to move through problems more smoothly. This had a tremendous positive effect on our relationship and the family dynamics.

Think about it. When was a time that you planned ahead, anticipating a stressful event? Were you able to mitigate the negative impact? I bet you were.

For many of us, the desire to win is innate and powerful—whether it’s a game, an argument, or the election. It makes perfect sense that we all have a strong desire for the outcome of the election to be aligned with what we want. 

Unfortunately, we can’t all be winners. Some of us will be disappointed. 

How can we manage our potential disappointment ahead of time? What do we have control over?

We have control over how we respond to the election outcome. We have the power to choose our reaction whether our candidate wins or not.

As we think about how to respond, know that we are all trying our best at any given moment. No one consciously chooses to show up as less than their best. This awareness increases our understanding and compassion for those who see the world in a different way. 

Regardless of who wins, let’s choose not to lead with anger, blame, and judgment. Instead, let’s lead with tolerance, acceptance, and kindness. 

We are one world, connected inextricably, and hopeful for a fair and just society, whether our political views are aligned or not. 

Let’s make a plan now so that after the election, we choose to respond to others with a curiosity to understand, a bit of grace, and a lot of kindness.

Standing in front of the John Lennon Wall holding hands with my daughter, I am reminded of his meaningful lyrics:

“Imagine all the people
Living life in peace
You may say I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you will join us
And the world will be as one”

— John Lennon