After Donald Trump was elected president on Tuesday, it’s been interesting to see the shocked faces of the media, the reaction from the nation, and hear parents ask, “What am I going to tell my daughter?”
It’s interesting to keep hearing that reaction. It almost feels like these parents are afraid of their own child’s reaction, or thinking these result will somehow change their ability to succeed in the future.
As we watched the results throughout the night, my 11-year-old daughter came in and asked, “Did Hillary win like you thought?” I have to admit, I just figured she’d win. I always thought she and the Democratic Party had the attitude that she was entitled to the position, and somewhere along the way, I guess I adopted the same mentality.
I often made statements to my daughter that I figured Hillary would be our first female president.
The entitlement attitude felt like there were many saying she’s worked hard and it’s her turn. Maybe that’s why she didn’t have any really serious competition against her in the primary. Although, I take my hat off to Bernie Sanders for trying. It felt like she was entitled because she is a woman and many felt it’s time we have a female in the Oval Office.
But, small-town America turned out to the polls, voted and decided it isn’t time for Hillary.
So, with that, what do we tell our children? I think the answer is easier than some parents believe. First of all, it doesn’t mean young women of the future and strong, willing women today can’t try. If they want to run for office, by all means tell them Hillary showed you can. She was the major-party candidate. She was one step from the White House. Let’s keep prospective here. All hope is not lost.
My daughter and I talked about it. She knew I was never excited about either candidate. She has asked a lot of questions, and as parents, we have always stressed the importance of being a part of the democratic process and not sitting on the sidelines.
To those who really wanted Hillary – the results were a bit of a shock, but we have to set an example to our children now. We have to let them know that things don’t always turn out as you’d wish. In fact, disappointment, especially in politics, is part of life.
Preparing our children for the democratic process is part of preparing them for adulthood. Voting is always important. Let them know that as long as they did their part and their voice was heard, then they are part of the process. In that process, you may not be happy with the results, but, at the same time, let them know to respect it. Respect that we have a system where all Americans have a say.
After the final votes are tallied, we work to teach our children that they may not be what we preferred, the system did its job and we have a new president. Agree with him when he does well, speak up and say when you disagree with policy or changes, and, most of all, always have an open mind.
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