We Have Taken America Back

Back to a time when all men (and women) are not created equal.  Where women's healthcare is determined by men's laws and not by medical professionals. Where education tells only the "winning" side of the story and truth does not matter.  Where banning and burning books is a social event.  Where people who are "different" than those in power can be mocked, shunned and hurt with no real consequences. Where lies are acceptable and integrity is  just a word on a page

We have moved into a time where rage is the rage.  Where hate is not just normal, but accepted and even cheered. Where leaders can ask to have their "enemies" killed and no one will bat an eye.  Where it's "funny" to see someone struggle.  Where felony is applauded. Where compassion is not shown and caring for others is looked down upon.

We have taken America back to a time of pain and suffering for many.  Back to when the "haves" can have and the have nots don't count.  A time when dictators are revered.  A place where retribution is reality and we only give if we can get.  A place where those who proudly claim to be "Christians" refuse to follow the teachings of Christ.  (Particularly one of my favorite teachings:  Matthew 25:  31-46)

A time when hope has been buried and millions are devastated.

America has been taken back.

Back to a time when there was no united.  Back to a time when freedom was not a reality for all peoples.

Beware to those who rejoice in this new Reich.  The "promises" that have been made can just as quickly be broken.  Prosperity will continue, but it may not be for you.  What will happen when we realize that our golden god is just manure wrapped in shiny foil?

There is no denying that there is despair.  That there is sadness.  That there is fear.  There is so much fear.

We have been told that it is darkest before the dawn, but at this moment the dawn seems so far away.

As for me, I may cry.  Hurt will fill my heart for some time...how long I do not know.  But I REFUSE to hate.  (And at times it is hard NOT to.)  I will remember the words of Dr. Martin Luther King:  "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

America may have gone back, but I will continue to press forward.  As hard as it may be right now, I must keep moving forward towards light and not let darkness consume me.   I must have faith that there will be a dawn and that light WILL come again.

For those who rejoice, may you have the grace and understanding to support those who are despondent.

For those who mourn, know that you are not alone.  Look to the light.  The light will shine again.  Remember (and pray) "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;  those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone."