2019 is here, and with the new year many people — myself included — are making plans, renewing commitments to goals, and generally figuring out what we will be doing for the next twelve months. Many people found the election of Donald Trump a call to action. I soon found like-minded people, banded together with them to resist the ignorance and greed now on display. We called our elected officials, argued with and attempted to persuade their staff, protested in the streets.
We voted. We accomplished a great deal in the last two years, but we go into 2019 with much more to do. As I contemplate my own goals for the year, there are a few things that those of us who style ourselves as “The Resistance” should keep in mind.
Self care
First, take care of yourself physically. Do those things that you know you should — diet, exercise, sleep, meditate, or something else you think will improve your well-being. It is shocking how small changes can yield large benefits. If you wear down physically, it will hinder every other goal you have. If you push yourself to the breaking point, you will no longer be able to help anyone else.
Look for the good
Similarly, take care of your mental outlook.
Actively look for the good things in life. Practice seeing them, every day, large or small. Consider keeping a gratitude journal — literally writing down things from your day for which you are grateful. Taking note every day of the good in the world trains you mentally to see more of them. The news seems constantly full of things that are infuriating, frightening, or both. Combat that seemingly endless onslaught of terrible events by practicing looking for the good.
Remember why we fight
We are part of a struggle, but be mindful of why it is that we are putting in that effort. Remember what we're struggling
for; don't dwell on the fight, but remind yourself of the people, the ideals that are worth the effort. Don’t get sucked into reading or watching the news constantly, obsessing over every detail, every tactic, every thrust or parry. Be engaged, but remind yourself why that engagement is important. The struggle is not an end unto itself.
Attack ideas, not people
The clash of ideas and values is certainly real, but be mindful of not demonizing those you see as antagonists. Remember that everyone comes from different backgrounds and has different information. People "on the other side" are making choices and attempting to balance multiple — and often, conflicting — priorities, just as you are. They may be making decisions based on lies, propaganda, and manipulation. Don’t give into the temptation to see people who disagree with you (or seem to) as “the enemy”. Attack ideas, not people.
Stay positive
There is a lot of ugliness in the world right now; but as anger and fear are stoked, contrasts become more clear. Use all of the negative things you see as motivation to improve yourself, and redouble your commitment to your ideals.
- If you are shocked at the willful ignorance of Donald Trump, strive to be informed, and to constantly question and re-evaluate what you think.
- If you are outraged at the greed of the Trump administration, use that to be motivate more generosity.
- If you are repulsed at the misogyny, the bigotry, and the brutishness of the President, bend your words and actions towards greater compassion.
- If you find the fear and cowardice of Donald Trump contemptible, respond with strength, fortitude, and resolve.
Here’s to a better 2019. Resist.
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