As I watch the events unfold in the Capitol, I made a harsh realization.
I have been silent.
When people shared incorrect information, I didn’t correct them.
When people used slurs and pejoratives to describe our incoming leaders, I stayed quiet.
Now I realize why. For every wonderful neighbor and friend who I can discuss differences with rationally, I don’t know how many are like the people I saw today forcing their way into the Capitol Building.
Now part of the issue is that I didn’t want to start an argument at that particular time, or I didn’t think it would make a difference. But, in some part, much of my silence was based on fear. I agonized for a long time before putting a Biden sign in my yard because I was afraid of my windows being shot out. When I finally did put up a sign, it was stolen, twice. I didn’t put a Biden/Harris sticker on my car because I didn’t want it to get keyed.
Now you may say I am overreacting, and maybe I am. But when I challenged some incorrect allegations on FaceBook, I was told by a random poster that if he wanted my opinion, he would give it to me. I then remarked on his atrocious grammar, punctuation, and spelling, to which he replied that he was former military police, that I should not continue to argue, and I needed to drop the discussion now. To me, that is a threat, and from someone who swore an oath to protect this country.
So what can I do? I can speak. I can read. I can write. I never liked Trump, but deep in my heart, I hoped he would surprise me, that he would rise to the occasion and be the president we needed. I was disappointed. I ask those of you who voted for Trump, please try to hold a little hope in your heart that Joe Biden will be the president you need him to be. Let all of us try to make this country the home we need it to be.
Jen Baker
Wayne
