Despite the timing of this post, this is not a political blog. I won’t cast blame or call anyone in office out by name. I won’t speculate on the campaign, and I won’t share cable news clips or post information on domestic or foreign policy. Those are subject which I follow, but not which I am anything close to an expert on. I won’t talk about blue states or red states, or any states in between.

What I will admit is that like many Americans, I’m scared. I remain troubled by events that have scarred our nation and democracy. I acknowledge the frustration of many Americans, and I too have been affected by inflation and the cost of living. However, I also fear for marginalized group, including the LGBTQ community and immigrants.

The truth is that a person’s true character means a great deal to me. I don’t like bullies, nor do I like those who fuel hate and resort to name calling to prove a point or create a target. That’s my truth. I value empathy and honesty. If those character traits are not present on a daily basis, I’m wary.

Some might view that perspective as a fault. Others might view it as a gift. At the end of the day, it’s part of my character. A part of me that was solidified long before yesterday’s problems bled into today solutions or lack thereof.

I will say that I also believe in being respectful to others, including those who I don’t necessarily trust or even like. I will never fly a flag of hate geared at another person or group of people. I will never resort to name calling, whether I believe in someone or not.

I want this to be a safe space. I want this to be a place where I can put my anxious thoughts on paper, rather than allowing them to control my emotions. I want to turn my fear into something better…something more powerful than hate. I want to empower others to show compassion and acts of service.

I will always have a worldview. I will always strive to be a better person.

That is my bottom line.

And the only way I know how to make sense of the world as it is right now.