Your's, Mine & The Country

I remember sitting in my community college common area in January of 2009 while the inauguration of President Obama was playing on the campus TV's. I was simply trying to pass economics.

As my mind wandered in and out of concentration, to vague concepts and figures from my previous lecture, I couldn't help but hear the reactions as my peers passed by watching the 44th president. Some students were furious- vocalizing to their friends about how the country was doomed because we had just elected a socialist dictator. Others were ecstatic- proud of a candidate who had related to so many people who felt overlooked and underrepresented.

It truly felt torn. As I took it all in, I couldn't help but notice how polarizing everything felt. Everyone seemed to only be filled with hope or despair. Fast forward eight years. Yet another polarizing election for presidency; this time even more so! All it takes is a simple scroll of any social media to observe some of the most contrasted and strongly-worded views between supporters of either candidate. And after the election, it didn't seem to clear the air at all. No matter the results, a large chunk of the country is upset and losing hope based on who has been elected President. 

I've always been a fan of World War Two history. By far, some of the best true stories of the war were made into an HBO mini series called 'Band of Brothers.' It follows an entire Army company through basic training into the end of the war in Europe. One particular officer is especially unliked by the men. Their disdain for him only grows as he moves up the ranks. As the story develops and he is put in direct command, one solider refuses to salute because of his feelings against the officer. He is quickly reprimanded by another: "You salute the rank, not the man, solider."

That quote has always stuck with me- as I'm often reminded of it during election seasons. I remember having conversations with friends who struggled with President Obama, and I'm often challenging those with strong opposition to President-Elect Trump with the same idea.

We all have a right in this country to express our ideas and feelings. The key is to do so respectfully. The fact remains that he holds the presidency. If he, or any other president to come, is due anything, it's the respect of their position.

The ability to disagree is a freedom. But we must start with a foundational level of respect, or else we discredit ourselves and impeach our own opinion.