It is not my intention to get involved in politics. For one, I'm no expert. For two...my opinions aren't strong enough on the subject to invite the vitriol that would come from one side or the other. The truth is: I don't think either candidate is great. (Big surprise, I know). But the thing I'm sure of is that this is a crucial time in American politics/culture. This is a turning point, where the extremes of the left have pushed wider the extremes of the right -- or vice versa. 

While I won't say whether or not Trump winning the election is better or worse than the alternative; I will say that I firmly believe we need a strong leader in office at this point in time. We are, and have been, on the precipice of major changes in the way we view morality, family, faith. Birth rates are declining. Temperatures are rising. Inflation is ravaging living standards for the middle class, and has been for decades. (To me it seems like we've given up on the national deficit and accepted the inevitable burst bubble down the line). 

While I may not like Trump as a person; while I may think he is dishonest and lacks integrity...I do believe the American people can overcome the vitriol and polarization this time around. My fear is that the rage and race-baiting "influencers" (including big media) will simply use Trump as a means to stir up anger...and get views. 

I have chosen to avoid the mudslinging this time around. I don't want a country divided. I don't give a president that much power over my day-to-day. Yes, my life will be affected; but I have more power over my circumstances than any outside influence. I will choose to allow you your views, whether they differ from mine or not. 

While my limited knowledge in the realm of world politics is lacking, I will forever be of the opinion that we should help our allies, internationally and domestically. And, my fellow Americans, you are my closest ally. I need you with me. We will pay higher taxes, we will pay lower taxes. We will send aid or we will not send aid; We are still Americans, and we are divided. If we want to make America great again, WE must make America great again. 

To all of you keyboard warriors (including myself), I implore you to realize that the enemy isn't the person you're angrily replying to; It's a system of news and social media meant to divide us down the middle so we can be manipulated all the more easily. To those who believe the news is fake, keep that in the front of your mind as you read headlines. We can all agree that news agencies favor one side or the other. So, let's all agree to take that skeptical energy into every post that makes us feel righteous or angry. That's how they move us. It's insidious. 

America can be great again. But it won't be because of a president or a politician. It will be because we ARE America, and we can be great. Hell, we are great, but the greatness gets drowned out by the toxic atmosphere. Join me in getting to know our greatest allies: our countrymen. Let's make America reasonable again.