Your civic duty can be uniquely exercised on November 5th, but there is an even bigger civic duty required the next day: which is to accept the results and focus instead on showing up for each other.
Chris Pratt offers his thoughts on the upcoming election — and I think it’s something worth hearing and remembering:
In high school, the greatest part of being on the wrestling team wasn’t that we were state champions in 1997. It was the following week, when our coach forced us to get up early on a Saturday to help an old lady move. Yes, victory was sweet. But as we helped that old lady move, we were part of something bigger than ourselves. We were moving her whether we won or lost.
I write this now because about half of the voting population is going to be incredibly disappointed on November 6th. But for me, the question is not, “Did your candidate win or lose?” but rather, “Will you wake up the next morning and help an old lady move?”
It’s OK to take a moment to lick your wounds when you lose. Heck, go ahead and cry in the mirror. But if we become too paralyzed by defeat or too pompous in victory, allegiance to our “team” can blind us to the fact that we are fellow countrymen.
How do we become a nation of honorable winners and graceful losers? It starts with remembering no matter who wins or loses, there are still going to be people who need help in this country.
Find them. Be of service.
America’s greatness is in the strength of our unified communities. It can be found in our places of worship, Elks clubs, Rotary clubs, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, the Salvation Army, and in our service members. Our strength lies in our people who step across the political aisle not just with the handshake of a good sportsman, but a helping hand to anyone in need.
So, be a good sport. We need you. Our country needs you. Team Red, Team Blue, and Team “Didn’t Even Vote,” too. Your civic duty can be uniquely exercised on November 5th, but there is an even bigger civic duty required the next day: which is to accept the results and focus instead on showing up for each other.
Check in with your neighbor—especially if they voted for the other guy or girl. Ask how they’re doing. See how you can help. And while you’re at it, see if they know any old ladies who need help moving.
