So, America decided. I spent a day grieving then fabricated a plan on how to cope. I will not stand by or continue the rhetoric of the new hate-filled world of the incoming administration. We will all suffer, but we must STRIVE to be that positive person people want to be around.

I produced my own plan on how to survive these next four years. Each day I will bring joy to those I both know and don’t know through words and small actions. I’m calling it the 365-day Kindness Calendar. It is my hope to post words of encouragement and commit to one act of kindness a day over the next 4 years. It might be as simple as answering a text for those in need stating, “Hang in There!” It could be as simple as paying it forward in a store or a restaurant. Or giving to your local food banks such as: Community Food Share in Louisville, CO  https://communityfoodshare.org EFAA in Boulder, CO  https://www.efaa.org/

Or, just saying thank you to those we forget about who are just doing their jobs. Or, listening and encouraging a friend in need with your positive feedback. Or, making a joyful noise with the Senior Choir to those in Memory Care.

These acts do not have to be dramatic and life changing. They just need to be small and meaningful to those who are and will be struggling in the future. We must believe in each other once again. We must continue to educate ourselves in history and civics to understand our past and plan for our future. We can choose to read uplifting books and watch movies that can make blockbuster change!

Yes, I am sad that the nation went this way and let their fears of the future guide their votes. But I know we can get through it without becoming those negative people older Americans and youngsters exemplify. Staying positive is the only way to survive.

We cannot change all the negative and hurtful feelings in others, but we can still strive to be that shining light.

I encourage all of you to be a part of my new movement, making the first act to be kind to each other and stop the negative talk. Make this holiday season merrier and continue to strive for positivity in the new year. Tell your family and friends you love them and journal your thoughts, either in a notebook or aloud on your posts. I love you all and thank you for listening!