Unity and Pride

By Celia Stem

Freshman Opinions Columnist Celia Stem writes about her emotions following the 2016 presidential election and how to move forward from this event.

          Some consider September 11, 2001 to be the worst day in American history. Now, a few days after the 2016 presidential election, some compare 9/11 and 11/9.  Though I believe that these two days in our country’s history cannot be compared, others disagree. Whatever you believe, I feel that most people can agree that November 9, 2016 will go down in history as one of our nation’s most complicated election responses.  
          Although, some people may look back at 9/11 with sadness, I also look at this day with a sense of pride. To imagine what citizens of our country had endured in just a few hours: the panic, the loss of family members and friends, and the uncertainty of it all, is heartbreaking; however, despite all of the sadness that surrounds this horrible memory, I remain proud. Our country did not fearfully back down from this act of terror.  We stood up. Our country did not fall apart.  It became stronger. I am proud to be a part of a country that remains steady.
          It’s no secret that this election was one of the most confusing, divisive, and dramatic elections ever. Many people of this country are filled with the same uncertainty that they felt on that terror-filled day on September 11th.  And, although, some people are sad, angry, or scared, I wonder if our country will fearfully back down and fall apart or come together in unity and take pride in the country that the people before us have worked so hard to build.  American history is filled with examples of people fearing uncertainty.  During the Civil War Lincoln reminded all Americans that “we must not be enemies” and called on “the better angels of our nature” to think about all the things that unite us as a country rather than those that divide us.  I hope that we can come together as a united people, respect each other, and have pride in our country in the face of uncertainty.