I had the opportunity to attend the inauguration of Donald Trump. I’d never witnessed the swearing-in of a president of the United States, so I was really excited to be able to be an eyewitness at such a monumental occasion. I even arrived at the checkpoint gate at around 5:30 a.m. to make sure I had a good spot. I was able to watch a breathtaking sunrise light up the sky behind the Capitol of the United States, where in just hours Trump would take the oath of office.
My friends and I passed the time by people-watching, playing phone games, and trying to stay warm between alternating spurts of light rain.
While the ceremony was going on, I had an unexpected encounter which I posted about to Facebook:
While I disagree fundamentally with nearly everything Obama has implemented policy-wise, it made me angry to see grown men giving these girls a hard time. They were not protesting or making a scene, just quietly and respectfully observing the ceremonies.
After the closing prayers I felt compelled to approach these girls and introduce myself. I asked their names, explained that I was a Republican, and then apologized for the way my fellow Republicans had mocked at their obvious distress in seeing “their guy” leaving office. I thanked them for being brave enough to come knowing that they would be surrounded by thousands of people of opposing opinions; but I also asked them to please not judge all Republicans by the actions of a few grown men who evidently have a lot of growing up to do still. Thalia and Caroline thanked me for my apology, and said it meant a lot to them. After our brief conversation, we hugged and I asked to snap a quick pic with them because I wanted to share this experience – and I hope you’ll share this story too – because it’s a message many need to hear.
In parting, I told Thalia and Caroline I hoped President Trump wouldn’t turn out to be such a bad president in their eyes upon the conclusion of his term. They responded that they will hope for the best, and give him a chance. I am optimistic about Trump’s presidency at this point, but I do know one thing. We won’t “#MakeAmericaGreatAgain” by being bullies. We’re better than that, #GOP. It’s more than time we came together as Americans and started working towards unity, not division. Peace, not strife. Love, not hate. #inauguration2017 #MAGA
It is dismaying to me how many Republicans and Democrats treat each other on the basis of their opposing views. I’m not just a Republican. I am also a Christian, and the Bible teaches us to love those around us and treat them the way we want others to treat us. I think we would all be better off if we treated each other with the inherent dignity and respect due to each human being.
