I am struggling mightily with our collective situation and i fear the worst is yet to come. All of your suggestions are so important. I would add to surround yourself with music, keep it on on the background of your daily tasks. Play it loudly when you can and dance like no one is watcing. Meditate to it daily. Music is therapeutic and healing. It has always been my lifeblood.
Yes, music is very important to my well-being. I put on my best walking music and dance it all out. When I’m dancing I feel so young again. I’m 65 and in good health. So I appreciate that every day.
I've been listening to a lot of music and it's the only thing that calms me I have. I don't turn the TV on cuz nothing interests me. I can't sit quiet enough to watch it but with music. I can you know sit or do whatever
Leave all social media outlets that have gone full-tilt fascist. Use Goods Unite Us to avoid spending money with businesses that support fascist politicians and causes. Support local progressive businesses, especially those owned by minorities and vulnerable people, whenever possible.
I am fortunate to live alone. My Cult Member family members live in other states. I also am retired and am not required to interact socially.
I do not have a scheduled routine. Why is this good you may ask. Well, my sleep patterns are my own....I can escape into a nap any time I want, I can eat when I want what I want. And when I do watch the news I can cuss as much as I want as loud as I want. My poor kitty thinks her new name is Fuck.
Unfortunately, I am going on a 5 day cruise with my extreme MAGA sister and 12 of her like minded friends. Why go? Because she is paying for it and it was planned before the election. At least my other sister who is like minded with me is going. She has a calming effect on me. Cruise ships are large and busy and I can avoid them.
My biggest self-care is the daily phone calls with my daughter who is very politically savvy and totally like minded with me.. She is a retired Army Sgt so we can cuss a lot.
What we have found is humor.....sharing photos of Melania's Hamburglar hat and Ivanka's Handmaid Tale green dress. We now refer to her as OfJared,
But in our daily conversations we video chat and she shows me the snow, the frozen Chesapeake Bay, the dogs whom I love .
So I say all that to say ......find at least one friend to laugh and cuss with
Limit media consumption. Get outside once a day - I am terrible at withdrawing so this is a big one for me. Chuck the “rules” my boomer parents out the window such as penny-pinching every last dime, never taking vacations (just work *all* the time); and, never questioning “American Exceptionalism”.
As a 47 year old, single, female liberal lawyer living in deep red MAGA-land, I am personally terrified. Moving ex-US is becoming more and more appealing.
We looked into it. It is very difficult for old people to immigrate. My Grandchild and spouse will be coming soon. It breaks my heart because our family is very close both in proximity and emotionally. I am afraid, yet can’t stop posting on Bluesky. I have learned a lot there as well.
Hopefully, you can plan lots of visits and spend time together that way. And posting on positive platforms is not a bad thing, it certainly helps to know that you are not alone!
We looked into it (both seniors), but we refuse to abandon our kids, grandkids, and soon great grandkid. Besides, don't be surprised if they try some fuckery with the internet.
I've found it best to read a good summary of Project 2025. That way, the shock will be lessened and you know what to prepare for.
I also think international vacation trips are a bad idea right now with the citizenship bullshit. YMMV.
Thanks for the comments. My one thing is to challenge the revoking of the 1965 EO 11246 and its subsequent 11375 that formed the bedrock of our fight for equal opportunity in the early 70s. I wrote a book about that fight- Women, Power, and AT&T: Winning Rights in the Workplace. Those changes were integrated into corporate behavior and should not be killed by MAGA edict. Corporations found equity to be good for business.
Thanks for this, Lois! I had to remind myself of this history & for those that are interested, Wikipedia does a good job w/it dating back to FDR in 1941, DDE in 1953 & LBJ in 1965. Appalling that the one in the Oval Office rescinded it this week w/his favorite black sharpie :(
My safe space is Ireland and has been for over 30 years. I travel there 2-3 times a year and this year I plan to be there every other month with the people who "get" me and make me feel so welcome and safe. I'm going to try to limit my doom scrolling. I went for a week and just got back last night. While I was there I limited my self to reading headlines and made damn sure not to watch a second of the shitshow on Monday. I'm still working as an early intervention evaluator and that keeps my mind distracted. When I'm home I am going to walk my dog more than I already do, limit my TV watching to my favorite mysteries, try to read at least a book a week and continue to crochet for charity. The big one for me is remembering to breathe...
I am just coming off a 3-day self-imposed hiatus from TV news and opinions and a reduced ration of Substack feeds and other multimedia sources. I found myself getting irate at the virtual blizzard of EOs, cabinet nominations. Commenting and publishing went way down from me as well on the vengeful nature of these was showing up in ever increasing dark and hateful responses from me. I feel that the “reset” has done me a world of good and I look forward to direct participation once again.
You're right on - as a mental health counselor who loves both Jesus and my country - I needed your advice. I woke up sick today so my body is taking the brunt. At the same time, I do not want to withdraw so I've been emailing and calling my senators to not confirm Hegseth as he is an untreated alcoholic and our national security is at risk (PS- I'm an addiction treatment and prevention specialist). I've shared your email challenging clergy to speak truth to power and I'm listening to classical music.
Stay off the social media that I just deactivated. And follow through with deleting once I’ve heard from contacts that I only see on those social media apps. I’ve given myself till the end of February for that …continue to walk, meditate, do yoga, and spend time with the folks with disabilities whom I have worked with for decades. They are grounding to me and I to them. Stay true to myself and what I believe in and don’t get lulled into complacencyby living in the blue state of Massachusetts, because every part of the country matters. Continue to support my LGBTQ friends and family, and that means standing up to family members who say “I love your transgender son, but I voted for and support the current regime in Washington”. Those two are incompatible with each other.
Call friends often and be with them when you can. Hug your pets. Read. And most importantly, find that one thing you can do to fight back against MAGA and do it.
My pet and most wonderful companion and ONLY one in my life at this stage is my life line, teacher and has been sent here at the most needed time.. She is and has been showing me so much and since she found me...Wow I could write a book.
I've been studying Stoic philosophy (it's not what the MAGA bros think it is) and escaping to genre fiction and music. We also have three cats, two dogs, and a bunch of fish. All those things help.
For now, we two senior citizens are keeping a low profile, watching, and listening. We're in deep MAGA territory (Hawley's district). If doesn't help that I'm immune compromised.
Living in Ohio is becoming more and more terrifying -- not to mention infuriating. Trying to listen to JS Bach . . . a LOT of Bach. The Cleveland Museum of Art. Hiking the Metroparks when it's not -50 degrees (or thereabouts). Eating too much Mitchell's dark-roast-coffee ice cream. Above all, trying to figure out how we can resist and become what we should be/have been -- and how we can revamp our educational system so we can avoid future idiocracy.
I am unfortunately dealing with a health issue, right now. I'm in pain for most of the day and this is the 3rd month. I'm so weak, physically and emotionally. Music helps and I try to not to watch very much news.
I bought it but haven’t read it yet…”The Cruelty is the Point” by Adam Serwer.
I won’t go back to that broken place again!!! They totally expect to annihilate us through our compassion. Compassion and love are the best parts of anyone. That is sacred and we can help each other stay whole.
I have stopped watching a lot of the news, especially Morning Joe. I loved Joe, and once he and his ding dong wife went down to Mar A Lago, I was out. Don't give me your excuses of " we did not have to tell you we went. We were just doing our job. Fuck you Joe.
At a doctors appointment the other day, I accidentally let a “fuck” slip out as I was speaking. I immediately apologized. Then I turned to my friend (who drove me to the appointment), and said, “why am I apologizing, they elected a rapist and felon president, I’m going to say fuck If I want to”. I looked at the masked doctor (a 30 something female) who was smiling and laughing, and later in the neuro cognitive part of the exam where the question of, “who is the president” is asked, merely said, “we’ll skip that question”! PS: I live in a very red state and have to silently seek out Democratic allies.
I am struggling mightily with our collective situation and i fear the worst is yet to come. All of your suggestions are so important. I would add to surround yourself with music, keep it on on the background of your daily tasks. Play it loudly when you can and dance like no one is watcing. Meditate to it daily. Music is therapeutic and healing. It has always been my lifeblood.
Yes, music is very important to my well-being. I put on my best walking music and dance it all out. When I’m dancing I feel so young again. I’m 65 and in good health. So I appreciate that every day.
I've been listening to a lot of music and it's the only thing that calms me I have. I don't turn the TV on cuz nothing interests me. I can't sit quiet enough to watch it but with music. I can you know sit or do whatever
Yes, yes, yes! It’s my go-to also.
Leave all social media outlets that have gone full-tilt fascist. Use Goods Unite Us to avoid spending money with businesses that support fascist politicians and causes. Support local progressive businesses, especially those owned by minorities and vulnerable people, whenever possible.
I am fortunate to live alone. My Cult Member family members live in other states. I also am retired and am not required to interact socially.
I do not have a scheduled routine. Why is this good you may ask. Well, my sleep patterns are my own....I can escape into a nap any time I want, I can eat when I want what I want. And when I do watch the news I can cuss as much as I want as loud as I want. My poor kitty thinks her new name is Fuck.
Unfortunately, I am going on a 5 day cruise with my extreme MAGA sister and 12 of her like minded friends. Why go? Because she is paying for it and it was planned before the election. At least my other sister who is like minded with me is going. She has a calming effect on me. Cruise ships are large and busy and I can avoid them.
My biggest self-care is the daily phone calls with my daughter who is very politically savvy and totally like minded with me.. She is a retired Army Sgt so we can cuss a lot.
What we have found is humor.....sharing photos of Melania's Hamburglar hat and Ivanka's Handmaid Tale green dress. We now refer to her as OfJared,
But in our daily conversations we video chat and she shows me the snow, the frozen Chesapeake Bay, the dogs whom I love .
So I say all that to say ......find at least one friend to laugh and cuss with
I have two cats. Their names have become “Oh Shit” and “Dammit” !
We have Thing One and Two. The kitteh sisters fit that perfectly.
Love it
Love your letter! Thanks for the relief from laughing!🥰👏🏻🎶🤣
Right on..!!!
Lmao hamburgler 🥳 hat.
Ya living alone does have it's advantage s. My dog gets a variety of entertainment as well..:)
Rebecca, I wrote to you from Jean( Murie) didn’t say who I responded to… thanks again!
Watch birds. 🦉🦆🐦⬛🦅
Definitely!
Limit media consumption. Get outside once a day - I am terrible at withdrawing so this is a big one for me. Chuck the “rules” my boomer parents out the window such as penny-pinching every last dime, never taking vacations (just work *all* the time); and, never questioning “American Exceptionalism”.
As a 47 year old, single, female liberal lawyer living in deep red MAGA-land, I am personally terrified. Moving ex-US is becoming more and more appealing.
Thank you for this post.
Come to Canada - we're nice ... at least for now!
We looked into it. It is very difficult for old people to immigrate. My Grandchild and spouse will be coming soon. It breaks my heart because our family is very close both in proximity and emotionally. I am afraid, yet can’t stop posting on Bluesky. I have learned a lot there as well.
Hopefully, you can plan lots of visits and spend time together that way. And posting on positive platforms is not a bad thing, it certainly helps to know that you are not alone!
We looked into it (both seniors), but we refuse to abandon our kids, grandkids, and soon great grandkid. Besides, don't be surprised if they try some fuckery with the internet.
I've found it best to read a good summary of Project 2025. That way, the shock will be lessened and you know what to prepare for.
I also think international vacation trips are a bad idea right now with the citizenship bullshit. YMMV.
Yes, we are hanging close to home.
;)
Do you take gorgeous cats? I am licensed lawyer in 2 states and my cat can likely qualify in at least 1 state
All creatures welcome!
As a 73 yr old boomer, I totally agree with you! :)
Thanks for the comments. My one thing is to challenge the revoking of the 1965 EO 11246 and its subsequent 11375 that formed the bedrock of our fight for equal opportunity in the early 70s. I wrote a book about that fight- Women, Power, and AT&T: Winning Rights in the Workplace. Those changes were integrated into corporate behavior and should not be killed by MAGA edict. Corporations found equity to be good for business.
Thanks for this, Lois! I had to remind myself of this history & for those that are interested, Wikipedia does a good job w/it dating back to FDR in 1941, DDE in 1953 & LBJ in 1965. Appalling that the one in the Oval Office rescinded it this week w/his favorite black sharpie :(
And we do not plan to accept any of this fascism. Marianne keep writing.
And thanks.
Lois, I hope they remember ! Some are looking only at their personal bottom line… never works for all!
My safe space is Ireland and has been for over 30 years. I travel there 2-3 times a year and this year I plan to be there every other month with the people who "get" me and make me feel so welcome and safe. I'm going to try to limit my doom scrolling. I went for a week and just got back last night. While I was there I limited my self to reading headlines and made damn sure not to watch a second of the shitshow on Monday. I'm still working as an early intervention evaluator and that keeps my mind distracted. When I'm home I am going to walk my dog more than I already do, limit my TV watching to my favorite mysteries, try to read at least a book a week and continue to crochet for charity. The big one for me is remembering to breathe...
I am just coming off a 3-day self-imposed hiatus from TV news and opinions and a reduced ration of Substack feeds and other multimedia sources. I found myself getting irate at the virtual blizzard of EOs, cabinet nominations. Commenting and publishing went way down from me as well on the vengeful nature of these was showing up in ever increasing dark and hateful responses from me. I feel that the “reset” has done me a world of good and I look forward to direct participation once again.
You're right on - as a mental health counselor who loves both Jesus and my country - I needed your advice. I woke up sick today so my body is taking the brunt. At the same time, I do not want to withdraw so I've been emailing and calling my senators to not confirm Hegseth as he is an untreated alcoholic and our national security is at risk (PS- I'm an addiction treatment and prevention specialist). I've shared your email challenging clergy to speak truth to power and I'm listening to classical music.
I think you're going to see a surge in patients for D&A treatment. 😔
Stay off the social media that I just deactivated. And follow through with deleting once I’ve heard from contacts that I only see on those social media apps. I’ve given myself till the end of February for that …continue to walk, meditate, do yoga, and spend time with the folks with disabilities whom I have worked with for decades. They are grounding to me and I to them. Stay true to myself and what I believe in and don’t get lulled into complacencyby living in the blue state of Massachusetts, because every part of the country matters. Continue to support my LGBTQ friends and family, and that means standing up to family members who say “I love your transgender son, but I voted for and support the current regime in Washington”. Those two are incompatible with each other.
Call friends often and be with them when you can. Hug your pets. Read. And most importantly, find that one thing you can do to fight back against MAGA and do it.
My pet and most wonderful companion and ONLY one in my life at this stage is my life line, teacher and has been sent here at the most needed time.. She is and has been showing me so much and since she found me...Wow I could write a book.
I've been studying Stoic philosophy (it's not what the MAGA bros think it is) and escaping to genre fiction and music. We also have three cats, two dogs, and a bunch of fish. All those things help.
For now, we two senior citizens are keeping a low profile, watching, and listening. We're in deep MAGA territory (Hawley's district). If doesn't help that I'm immune compromised.
*like a submarine in wartime for now.
My reply is to you
Living in Ohio is becoming more and more terrifying -- not to mention infuriating. Trying to listen to JS Bach . . . a LOT of Bach. The Cleveland Museum of Art. Hiking the Metroparks when it's not -50 degrees (or thereabouts). Eating too much Mitchell's dark-roast-coffee ice cream. Above all, trying to figure out how we can resist and become what we should be/have been -- and how we can revamp our educational system so we can avoid future idiocracy.
Dark coffee ice cream sounds heavenly!! Is it a local creamery that makes it?
Dark chocolate ice cream sounds even better. I wonder if anyone makes it? 🤔 😋
That is right up my alley cuz I love coffee
I am unfortunately dealing with a health issue, right now. I'm in pain for most of the day and this is the 3rd month. I'm so weak, physically and emotionally. Music helps and I try to not to watch very much news.
I too am dealing with physical ailments and autoimmune diseases and on and on. So yeah, the music is helpful and my dog of course is the best
I bought it but haven’t read it yet…”The Cruelty is the Point” by Adam Serwer.
I won’t go back to that broken place again!!! They totally expect to annihilate us through our compassion. Compassion and love are the best parts of anyone. That is sacred and we can help each other stay whole.
💪🏼💚🤙🏼
Adam Serwer is right on the money! "The Cruelty IS the Point!" Most definitely.
I have stopped watching a lot of the news, especially Morning Joe. I loved Joe, and once he and his ding dong wife went down to Mar A Lago, I was out. Don't give me your excuses of " we did not have to tell you we went. We were just doing our job. Fuck you Joe.
At a doctors appointment the other day, I accidentally let a “fuck” slip out as I was speaking. I immediately apologized. Then I turned to my friend (who drove me to the appointment), and said, “why am I apologizing, they elected a rapist and felon president, I’m going to say fuck If I want to”. I looked at the masked doctor (a 30 something female) who was smiling and laughing, and later in the neuro cognitive part of the exam where the question of, “who is the president” is asked, merely said, “we’ll skip that question”! PS: I live in a very red state and have to silently seek out Democratic allies.