A Wish for Unity Amidst Division in Politics
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Chapter 1: A Letter to Santa
Dear Santa,
It has been a considerable time since I last reached out to you. While I’m mostly grown up, I still hold onto my belief in you. I can’t think of anyone else to turn to for my request, and I wanted to give you ample time since it may take a while for you to fulfill it.
This weekend marks Memorial Day in Canada and Independence Day in the United States—both occasions commemorate the sacrifices made for freedom. Freedom embodies the right to express our identities and beliefs, yet it seems many have lost sight of this essential truth.
You are likely aware of Donald Trump’s intention to run for president in 2024. Naturally, you possess all the knowledge. He has become a significant source of division in America, with a polarization of beliefs that dismisses opposing views. Although I reside in Canada, I am beginning to observe similar tensions here.
Civility Over Conflict
I’m compelled to write this because I recently encountered discussions about a potential second civil war in America. This notion, while seemingly exaggerated, has garnered attention.
Since joining Medium a month ago, I have primarily witnessed love and support among its members—an experience that has been truly uplifting. However, when I searched for stories about Donald Trump, I stumbled upon hostile comments that were starkly different from the usual atmosphere. The hate and judgment displayed were disheartening.
How did we arrive at this point?
A Christmas Wish for Compassion
My Christmas wish is for individuals to embrace the freedom to hold their own beliefs while simultaneously respecting others’ rights to do the same. I hope for a collective understanding that harboring hatred towards someone ultimately equates to hating parts of oneself.
I yearn for us to cultivate empathy for one another’s journeys and to release the need to always be right. I dream of a world where we can evolve beyond these divisions.
I realize these are lofty wishes, Santa. As you distribute gifts this Christmas, perhaps you could include a note reminding everyone to listen when someone expresses an opinion, especially about figures like Donald Trump. It's essential to remember that we can never fully grasp another’s life experiences or the reasons behind their beliefs. Compassion is vital.
A Friend Regardless of Beliefs
This year, I’ve made a conscious effort to practice acceptance. I have a friend who plays golf with me, differing significantly from others in our group. He is both a Mormon and a supporter of Trump, a rare combination in Canada.
When Trump’s name came up during a conversation, the atmosphere quickly shifted. Instead of engaging in conflict, I chose to listen. Listening is a simple yet powerful act that fulfills a fundamental desire in people—to be heard.
My feelings for him as a friend remain unchanged. I still care for him deeply, and that bond is unaffected by political beliefs.
Finding Beauty in Division
Despite the significant divisions we face, I choose to see the beauty in humanity and believe in our potential to unite. It begins in communities like Medium, which boasts 90 million members each month. We possess the ability to inspire change by simply expressing, “I accept and love you for exactly who you are. I may not understand your journey, but I respect your beliefs.”
Santa, I still hold onto hope.
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Chapter 2: The Politics of Love and Hate
In this clip, President Trump discusses the polarizing nature of his presidency, emphasizing the need for voters to participate regardless of their feelings about him. His words reflect the current political climate and the importance of engagement.
This video features President Trump delivering remarks at the Conservative Political Action Conference. His address sheds light on his views and the responses they elicit, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about political division in America.