As an unofficial member of a different minority club, I feel the sadness and uncertainty of the future. Facing the disappointing election results, I intend to lean on hope for survival.

If ever there was a time when hope was needed, it is now. As minorities scatter for cover the moral majority seeks to ruin the lives of those they see as different.

We, the different, must rise to challenge them each in our own way. If we don’t, we will surely perish.

Revolution should not be needed, but challenging authority will.

Today, I reached out to friends and family to commiserate and process what happened the night before. My brother said he was still in shock. My closest friend said he was not surprised but disappointed nonetheless.

I am waiting for the dust to settle before making my next move. Hope and positive action are the only tools we have that will remain nonviolent in nature.

“Come on people now, smile on your brother everybody get together got to love one another right now.”

This quote is from the song, “Get Together” by the Youngbloods, (1967). It is from the chorus of this famous sixties rock band.

To me, it represents how we need to be with each other during this critical time with the peaceful changing of presidents.

The other factor I must consider is my upcoming surgery on my right knee. It is scheduled for February 27, 2025. Doctor Haight, a local surgeon, will perform a total knee replacement. This will enable me to walk after postoperative rehab.

All I can hope is that the president-elect doesn’t take my health care benefits away from me before the surgery is done.

I am walking with the aid of a walker every single chance I get. I feel the urgency like never before to accomplish this goal of walking free and unencumbered from a wheelchair or the aid of a walker.

Let’s lean on hope and each other working together in peace and harmony.