Maddie’s Fears for Election Day

I am nervous about Election Day.

The sad part is that my nerves are not centered around the winner and loser, but how people will react during the lead-up, the decision, and the aftermath of the decision.

Michael has said it a few times, and I couldn’t agree more, that “people are on their worst behavior this year.” The pandemic has caused a lot of anger and frustration for many people, and some of that anger and frustration is valid due to the terrible obstacles it has created.

But the anger that I’ve witnessed toward one another this year has been troubling and the divide amongst people has become more evident. Sprinkle an election on top of a pandemic, and you have yourself a scary sundae.

In my opinion, “cyberbullying amongst adults is at an all-time high. In this “new norm” of cancel culture, it has become virtually impossible to voice an opinion without aggressive backlash and criticism.

Is it just me, or have we yet to see a civil conversation between two people with opposing beliefs this year? The United States is a place where freedom of speech and expression should be welcomed, not shot down because it differs from your own.

I remember learning manners in primary school, but as adults, it seems we have forgotten the simple rule of “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say it at all.”

There is a big difference between listening and hearing. When a person takes the time to listen, there is a greater chance for growth. When a person is just hearing the words and waiting to respond, communication is sorely lacking.

I feel like with every election year, the division of the country is heightened, but this is the first year it has been so prevalent to me. It may be because I’m older and I have become a more involved citizen, but the constant bickering amongst people and the agendas they seem to be pushing have exhausted me.

I’m nervous for Election Day because I feel like all of the negative energy that has been building up this year will come to a head. I will be anxiously watching the polls tomorrow, praying for a brighter future, and hoping for better attitudes in 2021.