It’s practically impossible to be unaware of the recent election here in the U.S. While technically I knew it could go this way, I still wasn’t prepared. I woke up to find messages of fear and condolence from friends in later time zones. And then I read the news.
This will have an impact on everyone, though obviously some more than others. Folks in other countries will likely be impacted. Non-citizens in the U.S. will be impacted. People of color will be impacted. And then there are people like me.
I look like your average white, middle-aged woman living in a suburb. Sure, this will impact everyone, but you’d think I’d be impacted less than most if you just glanced at me. But the thing is, while I’m a middle-aged woman, I’m also disabled, relying on social security, Medicare, and section 8 housing. I’m Jewish. I’m queer. Am I screwed?
This is such a strange situation. I can see myriad ways my life could change in the coming year (or two or three or more) but I can’t see a way to prepare or prevent the fallout. There are no alternatives for the benefits that might be taken away. It’s too late for political organizing. I live in one of the better states to be in right now, and I’m grateful for that, but it will only take me so far.
In theory I should schedule my medical appointments asap while I have insurance coverage, but that’s not realistic. Some are checkups and can’t happen sooner. Many are scheduled as-needed, when something goes wrong. My medications aren’t covered by insurance anyway, so stockpiling won’t help. All I can do is wait and see… and hope.
I’m scared for myself. I’m scared for my friends. I’m scared for acquaintances. Who will survive this, and how? Will my friends lose their marriage rights? Will immigrant citizen friends lose their citizenship and be deported? Will friends because sicker or even die if they lose access to necessary healthcare? Will friends become homeless if they lose their section 8 benefits?
I hope everyone makes it through this ok. Mostly, I have been compartmentalizing. I distract myself whenever I begin to worry about this because, like I said, there’s nothing I can do to prepare for it. I want to believe we’ll all make it through ok, but I don’t know. The one thing I know is that I can only take it one day at a time. So that’s my plan. One day at a time.
I wish all of you the best of luck. Whatever your situation, I hope you’re able to manage through the upcoming changes. Hugs to you all!
Chronic Rants 
I’m about to start a federal job, and I’m scared I’ll be the first one cut. I’m also a naturalized citizen. I’m pretty confident I won’t get deported, but it’s a thought in the back of my head regardless.
I’m so disappointed that so many people believe in this cult. Like you, I try to stay distracted and hope for the best. đŤ
I’m so sorry to hear that you’re dealing with this stuff in both your personal and professional lives. I hope you’re able to continue with good distractions and that it helps! Good luck!