In a surprising twist of fate, a character who might be likened to a villain has just taken the helm of the United States. Every tale has its lessons, and this one is no different. Here are the lessons I’m sharing with my daughters in the wake of this election:
1. The Boy Who Cried Wolf Has Some Truths to Tell
Four years ago, we took Mitt Romney to task for his infamous phrase, “binders full of women.” His clumsy wording on a worthy aim—hiring from the other half of the population—led to a swift backlash. Fast forward to this year, when Donald Trump unleashed a barrage of statements that made Romney’s faux pas pale in comparison. “Grab her by the… well, you know” carries a far heavier weight than “binders full of women,” yet somehow, the uproar was muffled. In the age of social media, where rhetoric can reach fever pitch, we finally had a candidate who warranted our outrage—but it seemed no one was listening.
2. Remember Those Who Struggle
Much like President Obama’s initial campaign, Trump promised change, but aimed at a different audience with different messages. The desire for improvement—especially for those with limited opportunities—shaped the election’s outcome. We must never lose sight of those who have less than we do, and strive to uplift their lives. If we ignore them, they will find someone who will listen.
3. Diversity is Our Strength
The narrow margins in elections, from local races to the presidential level, highlight the rich tapestry of opinions across America. We often tell our kids that “no two people are alike.” Yet, when it comes to decision-making, we sometimes forget that diversity of thought is essential. Everyone, from political analysts to Trump himself, assumed Clinton would win—but she didn’t. This is a wake-up call for us all to acknowledge differing views and find a path forward together.
4. Transform Fear into Fuel
When I tuned into the election coverage, a wave of fear washed over me. It was paralyzing, but I realized this moment must be fleeting. Will we let fear hold us back, or can we use it as a catalyst to propel us forward? This morning, I showed my daughters what it means to rise after a fall, to push on with determination. Villains may exist in every story, but the lessons learned from them can be our guiding light.
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In summary, while we may face challenges ahead, it’s crucial to learn from them and to foster understanding and compassion in our children. Let’s teach them to rise above fear, embrace diversity, and always listen to those less fortunate.