In 2014, I experienced a profound loss when my infant daughter, Elouisa, passed away in my arms. That moment altered my life irrevocably. Some weeks later, my husband and I recognized a striking change within ourselves: we found ourselves unafraid. The devastation of losing Elouisa had stripped away our fear of the trivial, allowing us to embrace life with newfound boldness and hope, even amidst the wreckage of a broken heart.
However, this sense of courage was challenged when Donald Trump emerged as the Republican presidential nominee. His campaign was steeped in ugliness and animosity that shook me to my core. I was deeply troubled by his lack of substantive ideas and his glaring self-interest. The normalization of hate speech in American politics, coupled with the rise of similar movements across Europe, felt eerily reminiscent of the 1930s and left me feeling disturbed.
Living in Amsterdam, a city that knows its share of tragedy, I began volunteering at the Anne Frank House. The story of Anne and her family serves as a timeless reminder of the various roles people play in the face of persecution—victims, perpetrators, helpers, and bystanders. This election, beyond the stark differences in policy, highlights a significant contrast in the humanity of the candidates.
While I cannot definitively know if Donald Trump is merely playing a role for ratings, it is clear that Hillary Clinton embodies generosity, empathy, and a refusal to be a bystander. I feel compelled to share an email from Hillary, as I, too, refuse to remain idle. I hope the convention addressed what some have called her “likeability” issue, as well as the disconnect between how those close to her view her and how the public perceives her.
I have had the honor of knowing Hillary for 18 years, primarily through her daughter, my dear friend, Maya. When Maya introduced her mother at the convention, she described Hillary as “wonderful, thoughtful, and hilarious,” emphasizing that her strength lies in never forgetting who she fights for. Their family motto, “get caught trying,” speaks volumes.
What truly defines a person can often be found in their family values. I was genuinely touched when Maya left her three-month-old daughter to attend our memorial service for Elouisa. On her way, I received a heartfelt email from Hillary that read:
SUBJECT: Thinking of You
Dear Mattie,
When Maya arrives to support you, she’ll be bringing my love and strength for you, your husband, and son during this challenging time. If there’s anything I can do, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Love, Hillary
This message exemplifies Hillary’s authenticity, compassion, and resilience in the face of relentless scrutiny. The Clintons are not bystanders; they actively care and strive to make a difference.
As we consider the qualities we desire in a leader—intelligence, compassion, integrity, and perseverance—one candidate stands out: Hillary Clinton. If you’re interested in more insights on related topics, you can read this blog post here. And if you’re looking for reliable options for at-home insemination kits, check out this retailer, which offers excellent products. Additionally, for anyone seeking further information on pregnancy and home insemination, this resource is incredibly helpful.
In summary, Hillary Clinton’s character shines through in her actions and words, revealing her commitment to supporting others and her genuine compassion. Unlike some candidates who thrive on division and fear, Hillary stands as a beacon of hope and resilience, embodying the qualities we should seek in our next leader.
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