LOVE TRUMPS HATE

Donald Trump has been elected President of the United States.

Even as I write it, it seems like a bad joke. How could this happen? I have asked myself that question over and over again. I have discussed it with my friends, family and colleagues and we are all at a loss for answers.

But I know how this happened. This was the work of fear. Fear of the unknown; fear of those who speak, act, talk, or worship differently; fear of an ever-changing world.

This bears the mark of ignorance. Ignorance of the larger issues that rock people's lives on a daily basis, but which some can only grasp in terms of how it affects them; ignorance of shifting geopolitical views that are steadily heading towards right-winged populism; ignorance of the long-term consequences that will decidedly affect every nation in the world.

And above all, this is a sign of hate. Hate of those who hold different views, have lived different experiences and who lead different lives; hate for those who are brave enough to ask for help, who leave everything behind (often unwillingly) to start a new life in a foreign country; hate for women who are strong enough, sensible enough, and courageous enough to even aspire to lead.

Donald Trump has tapped into a shockingly large amount of people's hate. He has known exactly how to manipulate their disdain for others. And this, along with their fear and ignorance, has made him the most powerful man in the free world.

But you know what? I still believe, and always will, that LOVE TRUMPS HATE. Now is the time to remember this more than ever.

He can scream, threaten, insult and blame, but in the end, his hate can never overpower the love that so many people feel towards their fellow human beings.

Together we are stronger that him and those who think like him. And we always will be.

LOVE TRUMPS HATE.