The American Nightmare

2017年1月28日 (土)

Hi folks, although I’m usually upbeat, I’ve been feeling pretty angry for the past week. The reason is simple: Donald J. Trump is now the 45th president of the United States of America.

I’m angry because, for the past half century, Americans have become increasingly ideologically polarized. A great part of this, I believe, is due to politicians on both sides manipulating voter emotions to further their own careers, as those of their friends. I’m angry because money is THE deciding factor in whose voice is heard in Washington, DC. I’m angry because, on the whole, Americans want the same things, but refuse to give up the illusion that a two-party duopoly will provide for them.

I’m also embarrassed. Trump’s election is the result of a national neurosis underpinned by the belief that fame, money and big opinions are prerequisites for leadership. America is no longer the “home of the brave”, nor the “land of the free”. It’s become a reality show…and it’s doomed to fail.

However, the optimist in me refuses to die. Sometimes we need these so-called historical arsonists to burn out the old wood, and make room for new growth. And that’s what I think is going to happen. Once this political dumpster fire has burned across the American landscape, I think we’ll see real movements for progressive change. We’ve just got to survive the four-year nightmare, first.