Election Day Resolutions

November 5, 2024

It’s morning. I’m sitting on the sofa in a room with a northeastern vista on the second floor of our townhouse in Raleigh, North Carolina. The view from the windows have taken on a somber autumn patina. Most of the birds that fluttered from branch to branch in the plum tree chattering in the summer mornings have long since migrated south. My neighbor still fills her bird feeder for the cardinals that stay behind. The sun’s rays slant through the windows warming me.

This peaceful room has always had a calming effect. I breathe deeply and will my taunt nerves to relax. I’m calling up positive thoughts. I envision that I will climb the stairs, sit on the sofa in this room, and meditate in the coming days, weeks and possibly months.

Going forward, regardless of the outcome of the election, I will try to:

Join in conversation with an open mind with those who don’t share my political views.

Recognize what I can’t control.

Remember that my fellow Americans and I have more in common than what separates us.

Welcome change.

Not to be too hard on myself when I occasionally fail.