When I welcomed my daughter into the world on a chilly November day, I never anticipated that my maternity leave would be framed by the upheaval of an election and the daunting reality of Donald Trump taking office. As I settled into those early weeks of motherhood, cradling my infant, I grappled with a tension between the urge to stay informed about current events and the necessity of shielding myself from negativity, so I could cherish these fleeting moments with my child. The news was like a train wreck—impossible to ignore, even as I tried.
I quickly realized the election’s aftermath was not just affecting me; it rippled through my social circles, breeding anxiety, fear, and a shared sense of depression. I recognized the urgency to protect my mental well-being, especially since I was already navigating the challenges of postpartum life. Many friends chose to step back from social media, announcing their need for a break from the chaos. I contemplated doing the same, but a nagging realization kept me connected.
Amidst the despair, a question echoed among many—especially women—“What can I do?” It felt as though the outcome had sealed our fate for the next four years, leaving us feeling powerless. Yet, as I considered exiting social media, I realized that it was precisely the beauty of connection that held me back. My friends and acquaintances were actively doing meaningful work, and I needed to witness that.
So, I answered that question: “Continue what you’ve been doing. This is no time to give up.” Each time I logged into Facebook, I was greeted by inspiring stories. There was my old high school friend, now an architect, designing schools in Haiti; a former co-worker fiercely advocating for her transgender child; and my cousin, who has started a group in Connecticut to teach English to Syrian refugees. Then there are my friends in healthcare, who share heartfelt stories about their compassion for the dying. These are the individuals who brighten my feed and remind me of the goodness in the world.
It’s not only those engaged in social justice who inspire me. The simple joys, like seeing “baby firsts” and the everyday struggles of raising compassionate children, also shine brightly in my timeline. This is why I remained engaged. The people I connect with are actively working to make the world a better place—despite any challenges thrown at them by elected officials. They acknowledge issues like “white privilege,” support movements like Black Lives Matter, and stand firm in their beliefs about safe spaces. These individuals are part of the solution, and I refuse to distance myself from their positive influence.
In the wake of an election that shattered many illusions of progress for women, it’s crucial to remember that we are resilient. We are accustomed to fighting for what we believe in, and our work continues each day, in our communities and online. So, the next time you consider stepping back from social media, think about sharing more instead. Let’s amplify the beauty, connection, and inspiration that keep us motivated to make a difference, one post at a time.
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In summary, social media is a powerful tool that can inspire and connect us, even amidst uncertainty. By sharing our experiences and supporting one another, we can collectively foster hope and resilience in challenging times.