being optimistic is realistic
the extreme right is losing, let that sink in.
I’ve got to admit that the recent twists and turns in politics have left me feeling pretty shaken. From Biden's lackluster debate performance to the Supreme Court giving Trump a free pass and shielding future presidents from criminal prosecution, it's easy to feel like we're on a downward spiral. Watching Biden confidently stumble through his interview with George Stephanopoulos unable to even address his own voters’ concerns, I couldn't help but wonder how we ended up here.
But you know what? In the midst of all this chaos, the recent elections in France and the UK came in just in time to give us a glimmer of hope. Despite the odds, progressive forces managed to pull through. In France, the left-wing party's unexpected victory over the far-right showed that even when it seems like all is lost, the values of human rights, equality, and respect can still triumph over fear and division.
And across the Channel, the Labour Party's win in the UK sent a clear message: progressive politics can resonate, even in turbulent times. It's a reminder that no matter how bleak things may seem, there's always room for change and renewal.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that it’s all LGBTQ flag rainbows and pro-abortion butterflies… the road ahead will be tough. With the Supreme Court stacking the deck in favor of the powerful and Biden's struggles casting a shadow over the presidency, it's easy to feel disheartened. But staying realistic doesn't mean giving up hope. It means acknowledging the challenges while believing in our ability to overcome them. As we’ve talked before on Airplane Mode, optimism is not about being delusional, it’s about being realistic. Being optimistic doesn’t mean ignoring the obstacles ahead, but rather accurately assessing our ability to vanquish them. These progressing victories don’t mean that we can rest on our laurels, but they remind us that what feels immutable, can in fact be changed.
“Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”
-James Baldwin
Just like the polls in the US are currently showing Biden behind, the polls in France were predicting a huge win for the far-right, only for them to get served a reality check with extra sass.
The unpredictability of polls should never deter us from participating fully in the democratic process. Time and again, elections have shown that polling data can be misleading or flat-out wrong. However, rather than letting these discrepancies discourage us, they should inspire greater engagement and vigilance. Democracy thrives on active participation, informed voting, and collective determination. In the face of uncertain polling predictions, our commitment to democracy and our belief in its potential to reflect the will of the people should remain steadfast.
“It is in collectivities that we find reservoirs of hope and optimism.”
-Angela Davis
So, let's take a breath, regroup, and recommit ourselves to the fight for a better future. In the face of uncertainty, let's hold onto the belief that progressive politics can and will prevail. As we navigate the twists and turns of politics and punditry, let's remember: democracy may have its ups and downs, but with a dash of wit, a dollop of optimism, and a healthy dose of engagement, we've got this. Subscribe to our community, where we'll keep the laughs coming, the facts straight, and the hope alive. Together, let's prove that in the battle of ideas, democracy always wins. See you on the brighter side of the news!
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being optimistic is a skill! so grateful for this community for helping me grow it!
and by 9pm i meant 9am 🥲💜!!!!