It’s Up to Trump

“They’re only words.”

That’s what I kept hearing from people I respect who supported and voted for Donald Trump. One gentleman I know recently likened Trump to a gruff doctor, who has terrible bedside manners, but has the diagnosis right and gives it to you straight.

I’m not sure about that, but wouldn’t it be nice if Trump were as deep-down-good-hearted as that acerbic Dr. House?

I revere democracy and deeply respect the office of President of the United States. From the time I was old enough to vote, I have always respected and gave the benefit of the doubt to every new President elected to office, whether I voted for him or not.

I also accept the will of the people, who, through the Electoral College, voted for Donald Trump to be the next President of the United States. I hope he is wise enough to know that he has no mandate because it now appears that Hillary Clinton won the popular vote. Nevertheless, I hope to be pleasantly surprised by Trump’s desire and ability to unite and lead our great, but divided and troubled nation.

Words mean a lot, though, and during this Presidential campaign, I abhorred many of the words that came out of his mouth. I was appalled at how freely he spoke racist, misogynistic, bullying words that I would find unfit coming from any decent human being, much less a President.

So to accept Donald Trump as President, I have to try to ignore those words. Millions of Americans apparently did. What matters now is action. If Trump “goes high” and reaches across the Congressional aisle and makes an effort to fairly govern all people, not just the predominantly disaffected, angry white voters who swept him to power, then good for him.

But if Trump allows himself to fall back on well-worn habits, and “goes low” by punishing enemies, and treating the Presidency as yet another means to boost his business, ego and brand, then shame on every American who fell for the smoothest, reality-TV conman in history.

I will be supportive, but I won’t be stupid. They’re not “only words” now. A President’s actions affect the lives of people all over the planet.

I choose to be hopeful, but I admit that Donald Trump has a long way to go to earn my trust.

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