"Hope and Change, Part Deux": The Other Story of Trump

Since the election, I’ve been trying to understand. How did good people choose a man I think so little of to be President? That's the question I’ve been asking. 

Yes, I’ve gotten plenty of snark and condescension in response.  I’ve been called “Libtard” and “Snowflake.” And yes, I’ve been told to get over it, be a better loser, get a positive attitude. Those words just affirmed my story about the man and his supporters. But I have also heard other stories about a man I don’t recognize: another story very different from the one I believe. 

As far as I know, none of my friends is personally acquainted with the President, only their own beliefs about him. But ultimately, these stories, the things we tell ourselves about the world are what guide our actions.

I don't think either side has Trump exactly right. So, I asked this question on Facebook.

 If you support our new President, will you send me a private message telling me something positive about him that gives you hope? 

Here is what I learned.

“I think the man is genuine.  He's tacky and tasteless and mean-ish and all the bad stuff. But he's genuine and doesn't let awkward situations or guffaws stop him.  I think having no effs to give could be a useful characteristic.”

“He has several times put others before himself....
1. Twice had his own pilot and plane flew soldiers home when the US government wouldn't do so.
2. Gave someone cash when they pulled over to assist him on the side of the road when he needed no assistance.”

“I think he has a great sense of humor and a tremendous amount of appreciation for our military in a time when we are threatened from Radical Islam inside and out of this country.  I think he recognizes when America is strong we all prosper and truly wants to see America succeed better than it has for the last 4 years.  I believe he actually cares about America and Americans of all colors and creeds. And I am so excited to feel like finally there is a President of the People in the White House.”

“Trump supports the military, veterans and Americans of all races.”

“I didn't see him or his wife take a drink of the wine they were toasting with.”

"He believes in God.  He can't be bought. He loves America. He supports our military and our police."

“Politicians who paint with broad strokes and speak in largesse terms to appeal to those who will fund their efforts, and who SAY they want to "better society" by ENABLING, speak in generalities that sound impressive, but their plans and programs serve to DISable those they claim to promote and support. That is a soul-sucking, societal sabotage that I NEVER want to be a part of.”

“Do I like Trump as a person? No, not very much. But could I carry on a conversation with him and not feel as if he's looking THROUGH me to his own agenda? Yes.”

“Hope and change part deux”

“He does care about our country and our people. He is honest and straight forward. He listens to those who do not agree with him and has surrounded himself with very well qualified people.”

I’m not going to try to read between the lines here. I know and love each of the people who trusted me with these words. This isn't just the story they believe. These are the things that they want for our country. These are the promises that they accepted from their candidate.

As the President said in his innagural address:

The time for empty talk is over. Now arrives the hour of action.

I have never liked Donald Trump's public persona. I didn't like his book, his image, or his TV show. I loathed like the way he ran his campaign and the things he said he wants to do to hurt the most vulnerable among us. And I think many of the words he used to get elected were just slim-flam:  empty slogans that he never meant. His words will not change the world. 

His actions will.

This is his moment. This is his chance to show my friends that I am wrong about him. And with every beat of my politically-correct, bleeding Liberal heart, so help me God, I hope that is what happens.

Because if my story is correct and theirs is wrong…  God help us all.