Oh the year 2016! It has been…ok, I’m not going to sugar coat it. 2016 kind of sucked. The presidential election that appeared to have no end, devastating terrorist attacks, Brexit, the result of the presidential election, numerous amounts of notable deaths…people are just itching for this year to end. But before we abruptly close the book on this year, let us take time to examine the past and what changes we can do for the future.
What this year taught us that we cannot sit back continuously allow the same mistakes and problems that constantly plagues our country or worldwide. We, the people, need to start doing things differently, especially if we want society to move into a new direction. I believe we are stagnating with our values but these helpful suggestions may push towards the right direction…
1. We Need To Read More – I don’t know how else to stress this. Trump was yelling out “Make America Great Again”. What about “Make America Read Again”? They are a lot of ignorant, uneducated people out there that don’t know about the world around them, due to their lack of reading. So for those who already read, keep it up! As it has been said, books are our true weapons. For those who don’t or don’t do enough, what’s stopping you? Learn about the world that’s around you, the different cultures that are in the world. I believe education is going to vital in 2017 and we cannot do that without reading.
2. We need to be more understanding and tolerant – This ties in with reading more. There are different cultures and religions out there, different from what we use are used to. It maybe seen as idealistic but the only way our society, our world can become a become a more tolerant and acceptable place.
3. We must unite – With all the chaos and turmoil in the world, there is nothing more important to stand against any prejudices that exist in the world.
4. But we must stand against any form of discrimination and prejudices – Recent events and results of elections have brought out the worse of people. We cannot stand for any for form of discrimination. We must help to stop any form of hatred that is directed towards anyone. We may be different but we our hearts beat and we bleed one in the same. Why should anyone be treated any differently?
5. Do something! – Not happy with the results? Then do something! I don’t mean to do something drastic or illegal, but become more involved, especially in your community. There has been a surge of women running for political office. This gives all of us a chance to have our say and use our words and creativity for good purposes. If you want to find ways to become more proactive, check out these organizations.
I know I sound positive about how the new year is going to be, but the truth is I am scared. I am uncertain on what lies ahead for us in this upcoming year. But what 2016 has proven to me that if I want change, I cannot sit idly by and constructively participate to keep our rights protected.
2016 may have been a tough year, but it did show us that there is a lot of work for us to do to continue the change and hope in our lives.