A Week and a Lifetime Away: Healing the Wounds from the 2016 Election

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Election day was just a week ago. Some of the shock has worn off, but big emotions remain. The day after the election my inbox was flooded with questions from parents about how to talk to their children about election results. Days later, the questions kept coming. Parents and educators are scared about the little ones in their life picking up on the negative behavior exhibited in this election cycle.

Regardless of your political views, the passion behind this race was enormous. Politics is not my area of expertise, so the only thing I can advise you on is how to heal.

This is easier that it seems.

Begin the process by cultivating empathy, especially within your family and community. Take one step to help someone in need. This could be a friend who is sick and could use some chicken soup or a school fundraiser that needs volunteers. There are plenty of assisted living facilities that need people to simply come and sit with lonely residents. The myriad number of ways that you can support your community should inspire you to take action.

Yes, it is that simple. Take one small step towards making the world a better place. Be the leader who inspires others to see the good. (Click to Tweet)

Many have asked me, “So what is the step after that?” First, just do this step. Then you will have a clear head to take the next step.

But in case you’d like to get a sneak peek: start focusing your efforts on what you’re passionate about. Maybe feeding the homeless is not your passion. What is? Find a way to spread the positive word by using your passion. Make a difference in that area and take time to support it.

This is not an easy time, but the actions you take can help you and the little ones in your life heal.

The conversation with your small being about the political climate will continue for the months and years to come.

As a special bonus, I’m including a script for you! So, in the video below I give you the words and phrases to use in your conversations with your children about the election results. Framing it in the right way to your small being can help your family move forward.