Lost in the chaos, you yearn for a guiding light, a beacon of strength to illuminate the path forward, a source of poise and grace. The 2024 presidential election ended.
Darkness descends.
As the weight of these haunting thoughts engulfs my mind, my body responds with a physical reaction. A heavy ache settles in my chest, as if a boulder rests upon it, making it difficult to take in a deep breath. The tension spreads like tendrils through my muscles, knotting them into tight, uncomfortable bundles.
My heart races, pounding against my ribcage, its rhythm syncopated with the rush of adrenaline coursing through my veins. Beads of sweat gather on my forehead, evidence of the anxiety that grips me, leaving my skin clammy and cool. My body feels like it’s stuck in a perpetual fight-or-flight response, primed to react to any perceived threat.
Meanwhile, my vision blurs, as if the world around me is shrouded in a fog of despair. The vibrant colors that once danced before my eyes now appear muted and dull, mirroring the fading hopes and dreams within my soul. The evil shadows, once confined to my large imagination, seem to stretch and twist, casting eerie white shapes and forming orange grotesque figures in the corners of my vision.
But, this is not Halloween - that was last month. I am deep into my emotions at this moment. Just read please.
Fatigue settles in, weighing down my limbs, making even the simplest of movements feel like a monumental task. Each step becomes a slow, deliberate effort, as if my body is moving through treacle. It’s as if the darkness has seeped into my very bones, draining me of energy and leaving me feeling weak and drained.
Yet, amidst this physical turmoil, there is a strange, paradoxical beauty. The strength of these emotions and their physical expressions emphasize the complexity of human experience. It is a testament to the power of our minds and hearts, capable of conjuring such visceral responses in the face of darkness.
And so, as I navigate this labyrinth of emotions, I am reminded that even in the midst of despair, there is resilience. Within the physical effects lies a glimmer of hope, a spark that whispers of the potential for healing and growth, urging me to keep searching for the light amidst the shadows.
My nightmare has only just begun. The community has no barriers or fortress to retreat for safety.
People commonly view elections as a time to celebrate democracy and decide based on the voices of the people. For voters who have an attachment to a candidate or cause the aftermath of losing an election can bring about a whirlwind of mixed feelings such as disappointment, anger, sadness and, at times, even despair.
Being on the losing end can sometimes feel like saying goodbye to a connection or missing out on a chance because it typically includes belief, in hope and ambitions invested in it. Despite the distress of failure, there is a chance for development through self-examination and a refreshed devotion to principles. I share these emotions experienced by my family, friends, and community following the Democratic party’s defeat while also offering thoughts and perspectives of how to progress with poise and respect.
I am a man.
The Process of Dealing with Election Loss
Losing an election can be incredibly tough, for reasons. It’s like a rejection of the principles and ideals that the losing team stood for and fought hard to promote. The votes people cast reflect their hope for a brighter tomorrow; hence, when things don’t go as expected based on these hopes and beliefs, it can evoke a feeling of disappointment.
I am not angry, mad, or upset; however, I am disappointed.
Disappointment and sadness are the emotions that set in after an election loss happens. The enthusiasm felt during campaigning. The hard work put into it. I dedicated a lot of time and effort, from phone calls and letters to late-night social media posts, to ensure I left no stone unturned in my search. The defeat has left voters like me feeling a profound sorrow, like mourning a significant loss. The connection with Vice President Kamala Harris felt intensely personal, going beyond mere policy and speaking to a deeper sense of shared values and a collective vision. A person qualified to place country before self.
I feel like Democrats always fixing republican messes. Obama fixed the 2008 financial crisis left to him by Bush. Biden led us safely out of a Pandemic that crippled the economy left by his predecessor. And now…
I have Big Sean’s song playing in my headphones, “…last night I took an L but tonight I bounce back…” and it creates a mood for me. Earlier, I listened to Miles Davis’s “Kind of Blue”. Music helps me to relax and contemplate. Thinking clearly, I don’t envision anything better, especially considering that the Anti-Trump Republicans who prioritized country over party could have been offered or presented a plan without abandoning their inclusive, ambitious agenda.
They not like us. We fight fair and offer honesty.
She did nothing wrong as some media have suggested by not breaking away from Biden especially since he has presided over a remarkable come back story leading us out of COVID, returning hostages to their families, and passing an Infrastructure bill that has led to the economic rebound. VP Harris ran a blistering 105-day-old campaign laying out a board ambitious agenda for young families and middle class America. None of that mattered really because this divided nation was not and may never be ready to accept a black or any other female to lead this country. Instead, an old white male dominated illusion of superiority shackles us, an illusion we can’t break despite our better nature.
Rural America is still angry and nothing will ever satisfy a blood thirst for vengeance or belief in “replacement theory” gone wild.
Emotions of Anger and Frustration
Anger and frustration can sometimes result from feeling sad about elections, injustice issues, or when others disagree with their opinions. After all, the system functions as designed. Moreover, a white majority and burgeoning Latino community showed exactly who they have always been. A white nation characterized by suburban entitlement and country club privileges with deep trust fund pockets.
White America elected a convicted felon (fact) and a civil liable sexual predator (fact) and alleged best friends with former billionaire Jeffrey Epstein (according to reports). White men and women clung to the top rung of the racial hierarchy ladder and flagrantly kicked away any and all genders whom dare attempting to ascend with their Republican votes. All but for the Cuban-Americans in Miami Dade County that have been democratic since 1988. They overwhelming took over this once democratic stalwart county behind a deep Catholicism and loathing for anything resembling socialism. I know enough Cuban-Americans to know that it was not racism that drove them or anger despite Republican party calling Puerto Rico, “an island of garbage, but the mirage of economic growth, political power, and perceived strength in a man, albeit flawed, running the country.
The naïve sentiment of minority solidarity lay broken on the washed up shores of the Republican red tide and swept out to the sea of despair along with hopes and dreams. The Republican red tide destroyed the naïve hope for minority solidarity, sweeping away hopes and dreams into a sea of despair. Additionally, white men asserted their superiority, erecting a wall that isolated minority women, and even the belief that genders could cross boundaries was erased as many white women retreated from their solidarity with minority women with the removal of abortion and reproductive rights.
However, older adults crossed over hoping to preserve medicare and social security for their young family members, but in the end, that was not enough as the race and gender hierarchy played a role in their decisions too. I am left to think about how divided America has always been and why I believe the President Obama presidency to be the most consequential in modern history. The threat of a two-term first in our nation's black president was so alarming to deep red republicans that the power brokers joined with white nationalists to chart a course which produced our newly elected president.
We are a bigoted, racist, misogynist, divided, power crazed, and greedy nation.
America is a bold experiment that Emma Lazarus’s famous 1883 poem captured eloquently, like a national classified ad, “Give me your tired, your poor, / Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” This is the nation we need to be, but it's not the country we are - divided and unequal.
Perhaps, we return to our original true nature of a kingdom led by a king (SCOTUS did that), or a who has the gold makes the rules, or simply it’s raw, naked, unadulterated power and greed that belies all the hocus-pocus of “making America great again.” The fallacy is that white América did not build this successful nation alone in solitude, but non-white Americans produced many inventions, like the carbon light bulb filament, traffic lights, and refrigerated vehicles, to name a few. We did that and so much more. Black Americans are scientists, having worked on the infamous “Manhattan Project” as chemists and helped save the world from deadly smallpox.
Inner Contemplation
Individuals often enter a phase of looking inwards after the emotional impact of an event has passed. This time of reflection allows some people to reconsider their core beliefs and values. What does this loss represent to them? It prompts reflections on the existing divides that require attention and resolution. This process of introspection may lead to insights. This can also create difficulties as citizens wrestle with uncomfortable realities about the political landscape and their own involvement.
MAGA, the permanent Republican phrase and war cry, has become synonymous with “Make America White Again.” Some argue that it doesn’t exclusively refer to white people, but its true meaning is revealed through its policies and rhetoric.
MAGA overlooks while embracing the “shut up and dribble” mentality, the many contributions that Black Americans have made throughout history. From the inventions of Garrett Morgan, who created the traffic signal, and Dr. Charles Drew, who developed blood banking techniques, to the advancements in technology by figures like Mark Dean, co-creator of the IBM personal computer, and Dr. Shirley Jackson, who conducted groundbreaking research in telecommunications, Black Americans have played a vital role in shaping daily life in America.
Furthermore, African American artists, musicians, writers, and activists have greatly influenced American culture and social movements, making significant contributions to the fabric of the nation. To dismiss these contributions is to ignore the rich and diverse history of Black Americans and their impact on American society.
But, that is exactly what is happening with books bans, deleting African American history, and erasing social progress, because any movement means “catching up” and that simply will not do.
It’s completely normal and okay to feel these emotions. However, there’s a need to handle them in a way that helps you grow personally.
Advice, for Proceeding, in a Dignified Manner
The world may seem to hold its breath after an election, but it’s vital to acknowledge and work through our feelings for our individual and collective resilience.
Here are some ways for people to handle their feelings and stay positive after experiencing a defeat.
Recognizing and accepting your emotions is crucial for your wellbeing and growth. It’s important to give yourself permission to experience disappointment or sadness without criticism. Talking to loved ones or expressing your feelings in writing can aid in processing these emotions. Acknowledging your feelings is a move towards healing and progress.
Many have already explained to me that they are cleared eyed about their anger and frustration and the duplicity of some of their own. And this make take a while to process because we are human filled with emotions.
Set aside some moments to ponder and contemplate the situation of defeat you are facing and its personal significance to you.. Think about the reasons that drew you to endorse the democratic ticket. What beliefs or principles deeply connected with you and which cause stirred your passion? Do you support abortion rights? Is affordable housing available? Is Social Security being saved? Reflecting on these queries can help define your core values and reigniting your dedication to advocating for them of election results.
Seek the Bright Side - What is that?
There’s always a lesson to be learned from a setback. Think about how you could have been a more effective supporter (not saying you weren’t or didn’t). However, be prepared to view your own actions as within your control, while accepting that others’ actions are outside your influence. Changing your viewpoint can transform frustration into motivation for your goals. Understanding how to improve future performances brings back optimism and motivation.
Out there, someone is waiting to become a leader, someone who will fight for freedom and guide others towards a better future, just like Harriet Tubman led enslaved people to their freedom. Perhaps reading this article, or others like it, will inspire them, offer new perspectives, and empower them to fight back.
Stay connected of stepping from political discussions. Opt, for active participation by attending local gatherings and engaging with advocacy organizations or volunteering for causes you believe in. This not only helps manage the strain but also cultivates a feeling of belonging and fulfillment within a community setting.
Embrace Mental Health with Compassionate Understanding
In the realm of politics, it’s often tempting to vilify supporters of the candidate. Of succumbing to this tendency, try to approach them with compassion. Attempting to comprehend their viewpoints can offer insights and potentially reveal areas of agreement. Acknowledging that everyone has their motivations for their decisions can foster reconciliation and meaningful conversations.
Focus your efforts on taking steps. Engaging in activism can be a powerful way to cope with the challenges of a setback or disappointment in life. Think about getting involved in projects that support causes like justice issues or protecting the environment. Joining hands with others in making changes can help you feel more empowered and less overwhelmed by difficulties you might be facing. They want to retreat into isolation because division is good and cohesion is a threat.
Take care of yourself, both emotionally and physically. Do things that bring you joy and peace! From quality time with loved ones to artistic pursuits and enjoying the natural world, self-care is essential for maintaining the energy and passion needed to support political causes.
Avoid false distractions like excessive alcohol consumption, recreational and hard drug use, pornography, and unhealthy habits like smoking and vaping. While these may seem like escapes from the chaos of life, they are actually harmful and can be likened to nooses around your neck. Don’t hang on to things that don’t uplift or improve your situation, including negative attitudes. Give yourself a break and love your family.
In summary
Losing an election can be emotionally challenging and lead to various difficulties. Voters can handle disappointment gracefully and with integrity by acknowledging their emotions, engaging, seeking opportunities for growth, and showing kindness to others. It’s crucial to remember that every opinion holds value, even when you decide to withdraw from a discussion. Despite challenges, the fight for a better future can continue.
Finally, in this moment of transition, let’s not see it as the end of a chapter, but as a beginning filled with renewed passion and determination for our children and the youth. Their future has only begun, but we are in the midst of ours. Every setback serves as a learning experience and every generation faces adversity that strengthens us and prepares us better for the challenges awaiting us in the future.
Request for Action
If you felt defeated after an election, here’s my suggestion: use that pain as motivation to engage with your community and even beyond. Get involved with advocacy groups and start conversations in your neighborhood. The key to fostering empathy and mutual understanding is to actively engage with those whom you may have disagreed with. Even small efforts can make a significant impact. By working together, we can transform setbacks into a collective journey towards progress. This will ensure that our voices remain strong catalysts for positive change within our democratic system. Afterall, black lives still matter, reproductive rights matter, freedom from discrimination matters, equality for all matters, justice matters, and most of all - you always matter.
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