The Day After November 5

November 6, the day after Election Day.

Dawn breaks - a chilly, somber, vacant morning. Yet it wasn't meant to be this way. The streets are silent, devoid of the joyous melodies we anticipated. No jubilant crowds gather, poised for a fresh start. Instead, only echoes of once-hopeful cheers linger, now reduced to whispers of "We'll persevere and triumph!" More disheartening, the expected moments of profound joy and resounding cries of "We're moving forward!" are absent.

American, The Day After

It vanished in an instant. Months of renewed vigor dissipated, leaving behind deflated spirits. Gone was the vision of harmoniously integrating newcomers seeking American jobs with the relief of farmers desperate for harvest hands.

The hope for women's inclusion in crucial decision-making roles has faded, along with respect for their needs, even in a progressive nation. The idea that we would critically assess how our self-defense actions affect innocent bystanders during American intervention in foreign conflicts has been muted. This is evident in how resources have been used against others, as seen with Israel's actions against Palestinian civilians under the pretense of "self-defense."

Election Day was meant to signify a turning point in America's journey—a collective step away from hatred, sexism, and the looming threat of American fascism. Fascism, which transforms the president into an imperial overseer of the three pillars of constitutional democracy—the executive, legislative, and judicial branches—stands in stark contrast to the principles America has always upheld.

In contrast, Donald Trump interprets his resurgence to presidential power as a license to dominate all three branches, ignoring the constitutional limits meant to govern presidential authority.

On Election Day, November 5, election officials in Philadelphia were busy scanning ballots for the U.S. presidential election (OSV News/Reuters/Rachel Wisniewski).

To truly embody authentic leadership, we must prioritize the integrity of our system while confidently asserting our authority, ensuring that personal power never overshadows the freedom of the people. The American populace must invigorate our democracy, transforming it from a mere emblem into a vibrant reality. We must stand ready to protect and even sacrifice for its ongoing preservation.

Effective leadership also requires us to collaborate with international leaders, fostering an environment where all individuals can peacefully reside within their own lands governed by their laws. Yet, as we confront the looming threat of potential fascism, our citizens depend on us to safeguard their freedoms every single day.

As liberal Catholics, we find ourselves particularly concerned about the prospect of a Trump presidency. Our faith, deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, compels us to advocate for social justice, compassion, and inclusivity—principles that seem to clash with the current political landscape. We must remember that our liberal interpretation of Catholicism underscores love, acceptance, and the inherent dignity of all human beings.

We must draw strength from our faith and community in these challenging times. We are called to be beacons of hope, to stand up for the marginalized, and to work tirelessly for a more just and equitable society. As followers of Christ, we must embody His message of love and compassion, even in the face of adversity.

Let us keep sight of our values and our vision for a better America. Though the path ahead may be difficult, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to social justice, equality, and the common good. Together, we can navigate these turbulent waters and work towards a future that aligns with our faith and liberal Catholic principles.

In a democracy, authentic leadership embraces all, regardless of background or status. We must support even the most humble among us, recognizing that every new face in our community brings unique wisdom. This inclusive approach ensures we all grow together, guided by diverse perspectives.

Our primary obligation as leaders is to champion education, foster understanding, and uphold human rights for those without access to the privileges we often take for granted. This commitment serves a greater purpose: expanding our vision and cultivating a sense of global responsibility. We must care for the underprivileged, protect our environment, and safeguard our children's future.

To be authentic leaders, we must open our hearts and listen attentively to those who have stories to share, especially the marginalized. Their voices are crucial for our growth and understanding.

Why is this particularly relevant now? Because we've witnessed self-proclaimed "leaders" attack the vulnerable with hateful rhetoric and destructive agendas. We've seen those in power ignore the needs of the weak, failing to offer kindness or support their dignity. These actions are unacceptable and contradict the essence of authentic leadership.

We've observed public figures masquerading as leaders while behaving like bullies. In contrast, genuine leaders view their role as a catalyst for spiritual growth and societal improvement. They breathe life into our institutions, dedicating themselves to the welfare of others. Their efforts create a community of hope that makes conflict unthinkable and rejection impossible.

We recognize authentic leadership because we've experienced it before. We've been blessed with great hearts who embody the best of American values - humility, integrity, and a vision for a brighter tomorrow. These leaders work tirelessly for the betterment of all people.

However, we've also witnessed the opposite - those who, driven by greed and a thirst for power, sacrifice the well-being of the people they're meant to serve. These false leaders, consumed by their degeneracy, ultimately lose their moral compass.

As we face a new leadership era, we must ask ourselves: What kind of leadership will we receive? More importantly, we must remember that in a democracy, we are responsible for our choices. We elect our leaders; thus, we must be prepared to safeguard our democracy.

As liberal Catholics, we find ourselves particularly anxious about the current political climate. Our faith, rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, calls us to champion social justice, compassion, and inclusivity. We must stay true to our liberal interpretation of Catholicism, which emphasizes love, acceptance, and the dignity of all human beings.

We must draw strength from our faith and community in these challenging times. We are called to be beacons of hope, standing up for the marginalized and tirelessly working toward a more just and equitable society. As followers of Christ, we must embody His message of love and compassion, even in the face of adversity.

Let us keep our values and vision for a better America at the forefront of our minds. The road ahead may be challenging, but we must remain committed to social justice, equality, and the common good. Together, we can navigate this turbulent journey and strive for a future aligned with our faith and liberal Catholic principles.

Let's embrace the lessons learned from those who have faced challenges before us. Owning our choices and recognizing their consequences is vital. Above all, we must cling to hope. Let us allow the gentle voices of empathy and reason to rise in difficult moments, inspiring us to create a new anthem of unity and progress. The compassion of Jesus Christ will continue to guide liberal Catholics as we navigate the future uncertainties ahead.

Chittister, J. (2024, November 12). The election turned in the other direction. And so what do we do now? Retrieved November 12, 2024, from https://www.ncronline.org/