There is a lot of energy in the world right now.

How I'm feeling, why social media feels like a lot right now and a reminder that your voice matters.

There is a lot of energy in the world right now. A lot of fear of what to say, what not to say, whose opinion is right, whose is wrong. I’ve been blown away by comments I’ve seen on social media, clearly drawing a line down the middle of our country. Has it always been this way? I don’t remember feeling this way growing up but maybe I was too young and naive to understand.

When I was growing up, everyone was on the same side. I assume that is common in most places you choose to live (it still kind of is). My childhood led me to believe that you live amongst people who bring you joy, are in similar phases of life, etc. I never defined my relationships based on political beliefs. And if I’m being honest, I still don’t. I was raised to support one and have grown up to support another. I trust that everyone’s beliefs are for good reason (I would hope). A lot of what we vote for is dependent on state, community and more. I know some will say that is privilege but I’m going to call it hopeful. I’m hopeful that the heart of humanity is greater than our government. If you vote for one, I’m going to believe that you have good reason for choosing that candidate. I’ve never been one to try and sway an opinion. Life is heavy enough that I trust we are all trying to do our best, make good choices, you know? On the other hand, I’ve learned it takes courage to be different than your neighbor. We don’t change if we continue to fall in line. Coming from someone who did this for many years.

Social media is becoming a culture of “you are wrong and let me tell you all the ways you are wrong!” It could be your political beliefs, religious beliefs, how you parent, who you love, your wellness routine, your personal style - literally everything. An unattainable version of “perfection” in the eyes of those whose opinions don’t mean anything to your actual life. But this fear of opinion is silencing a lot. I am more apt to stay quiet to avoid having to defend myself. And most people will say “this is your job! you chose this!” but the fact that social figures have become punching bags for individual rage is insane. Social platforms have become a scary place.

The greatest thing I’ve learned as an adult is the privilege we have to use our voices. We get to vote - for the president, for our local school board, for community leaders. I feel a duty to my children to help impact their future. I spent many years, after being eligible to vote, believing that my vote didn’t really matter. Silly me.

So this note is just to say, vote. Vote because you get to. I’m not going to tell you who to vote for, I hope you do your research and vote based on the issues that are important to you. As a mom, as a human being, I am really sad with the state of our country. I am concerned for my kids, what the future of our country holds for them. You get to a point where hope isn’t enough. If we want change, we have to vote. I read a quote recently that said “bad governments are elected by good citizens who don’t vote.” We can’t be disappointed in outcomes if we don’t take advantage of opportunity.

Finally, if you’re feeling consumed by all of it, a little reminder that we are all functioning at different frequencies right now. Listen to yourself, do what you need to do for you, for your family. Take care of yourself.

Thanks for reading!

xoxo

Liz