On election night I went to bed but knew I would not sleep. The pain, disappointment, and sadness would not allow for a halcyon rest. Kamala had lost. All l could do was feel it. I had no words. A searing pain that settled in my chest along with a heavy lump in my throat had become my companions. It seemed that all I had hoped for, had faith in and given my life to was gone. I was an activist at 14 with sit ins, picket lines, being chased by an angry mob, being locked up. I believed in what America could become… a more perfect union a Beloved Community. But as I lay in bed on election night pondering the awful result; I heard America say No! It feels like a moral trauma.

I knew there were many more with similar feelings. And my heart ached for my friends, family and even those I did not know who believed in what Kamala called the Promise of America. I sensed there was a lot of pain and disappointment out there. I wanted to take them all in my arms. I was not alone. I spent the next day calling many of my friends and family to relay one message…you are loved. And there were those who called me, who lent me their strength and we shared a collective sadness and pain; while feeling blessed and comforted that we have each other. Knowing that we sit with the question …What Now? But we do not sit alone. We will have to shape a way forward. And we will do so together. Let us cling to each other. Find joy in each other, knowing that the only thing we owe each other is love. And next to love peace and Beloved Community. 

Join our next EBAOO Hear and Now Conversation on Nov. 19.  6:30-8:00p EST here…as we consider the question…What Now?  

Lutricia