Being a politically aware citizen in the United States is scary at the moment. We are in the midst of midterm elections and we are all waiting with bated breath for the results. Will reason win? Have we, as a nation, finally had enough of this insane administration and the terror it is inflicting on people here and around the world? Or will the oligarchy win? Are we spiraling toward the end of democracy as we’ve known it?
The reality is, it is impossible to predict. All of the polls, surveys, news commentaries and independent reporters in the world can’t say for certain what will happen on (or after) November 3. Stressing out about it can make one sick.
As one of my favorite recording artists, Sara Bareilles, has written: “I worry so much, but the worry don’t change what I worry about.”
Worry and anxiety are logical responses to the current state of affairs, but alone they don’t accomplish anything.
I am a disabled woman who is limited in the ways I can protest or volunteer on the front lines of the political battlefield. But there are some things I can do. I can educate my children and make sure they increase their media literacy and capacity for empathy. I can take them to vote with me as we did this weekend. I can amplify the voices of those at the front. I can do my homework and research using verifiable sources. I can contribute financially to candidates I believe in. I can have challenging conversations with people who don’t agree with me. I can hope and I can pray.
One of the most impactful lessons I was ever taught came from my grandfather. He was an educator, a coach, and a mentor to hundreds of students over the course of his career. He was highly respected and was one of my favorite people ever. And any time I would feel helpless or confused over my lack of ability or power in a given situation, he would remind me that the best any of us can do is this:
Do what you can, for everyone you can, everywhere you can, every chance you get, for as long as you are able.
That’s it. Just do what you can. It doesn’t have to be grand or newsworthy. It doesn’t require an excess of money or resources. You don’t have to be a superhero. Simple and small can still be helpful. So this week as we watch the news, count the votes, and hope for the best outcome, I would encourage you to just do what you can. And if you can, go vote.
