The 2024 U.S. presidential election has ended, and here we are, standing at a historic crossroads. A former president has returned to the White House, and the world is watching. But is this really the first time ever that a former president has returned to the White House? No, this is not the first time in U.S. history that a former president has returned to the White House. The most notable historical precedent is Grover Cleveland, who served as the 22nd and 24th President of the United States. Cleveland was initially elected in 1884, lost his reelection bid in 1888, but successfully ran again in 1892, making him the only president to serve two non-consecutive terms.
Similarly, the world paid close attention to the political dynamics of the U.S. during Cleveland’s return, though the global media landscape and international influence were far different at that time compared to today. The recent return of Donald Trump to the presidency is another example of a former leader reclaiming the office, but it is happening in a more interconnected and globally aware era, where international reactions are swift and widely publicized.
Whether you’re filled with hope, fear, confusion, or a mix of it all, there’s no doubt that we’re all feeling the weight of this moment. But here’s the question: what are we going to do with it? Are we going to let the emotions of this election drag us down, or are we going to use this as a turning point—a moment to rise, reflect, and take control of our lives and our communities?
This isn’t just about a political shift; it’s about an opportunity for transformation. It’s a chance to understand ourselves better, heal our divides, and grow. This is about how we, as individuals, can practice self-reflection, embrace accountability, and find unity, starting with our own lives.
Understanding the Emotional Landscape
A Nation Divided, a World Watching
Right now, the emotions are raw, and the divides are deep. People are shouting at each other on social media, arguing at the dinner table, and wondering how the future will play out. The tension in the air is palpable, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the noise. But here’s the truth: we can only truly influence what’s in our control. The polarization we see isn’t just out there—it starts within us. Every single one of us is carrying around beliefs, biases, and emotions that either separate us or bring us closer together.
Think about it—when you saw the election results, what was your first reaction? Did it come from fear, or from love? Was it about “them,” or was it about “us”? These are the kinds of questions that can help us understand our own emotional landscape. This election has highlighted America’s collective concerns—the economy, security, national values—but it also shines a light on something even deeper: our own fears and aspirations. The key is not to ignore these emotions but to face them head-on and use them as a guide to understand ourselves better.
Consider the conversations you’ve had with friends and family in recent days. Were those conversations focused on blame, frustration, or a sense of hopelessness? Or were they focused on finding common ground, understanding, and solutions? It’s time for us to look inward and ask ourselves how we can move forward in a way that heals rather than divides. Take a moment to reflect: how do these priorities line up with your own values, and how do they influence the way you show up every day?
The reality is, our emotional reactions are often influenced by the narratives we tell ourselves. If we tell ourselves that everything is falling apart, that division is inevitable, we contribute to that very reality. But if we choose to see this moment as an opportunity for growth—as a chance to understand each other better, to come together, and to be part of the solution—we can begin to change the story. Remember, change begins within, and the ripple effect of individual actions can transform communities.
Ifá’s Teachings on Change and Accountability
Self-Reflection as a Path to Understanding
I want to share something powerful that I’ve learned from Ifá, a spiritual philosophy that emphasizes personal accountability. Ifá teaches us that real change starts when we look in the mirror and ask ourselves: What role am I playing in all of this? It’s easy to point fingers—to blame the government, the media, or even our neighbors. But the truth is, the first place we need to start is within. Just like planting seeds, we can only grow what we choose to cultivate. And the seeds we plant today are the future we will harvest tomorrow.
When you think of this election and the emotions it has stirred up, ask yourself: What seeds am I planting with my thoughts, my words, and my actions? Are they seeds of unity, empathy, and understanding, or are they seeds of fear, division, and resentment? If we want to see a different world, it starts with us. It starts with taking ownership of our thoughts, our words, and our deeds. It starts with each of us deciding to be part of the solution rather than part of the problem.
Accountability is not about blame or guilt—it’s about empowerment. When we take ownership of our role in shaping the world around us, we empower ourselves to make a difference. It’s about understanding that our actions, no matter how small, have an impact. It’s about recognizing that the way we treat our neighbors, the way we speak to our families, and even the way we think about ourselves all contribute to the collective energy of our communities.
Collective Transformation Begins with Individual Awareness
Transformation doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen by waiting for someone else to take the first step. It happens when individuals take small, consistent steps towards being better, every single day. It starts with becoming aware of our thoughts and behaviors and making conscious choices that align with the kind of world we want to live in.
Imagine an entire nation—millions of people—each deciding to become a little kinder, a little more understanding, a little more accountable. That’s how we create real change. Not with one election, not with one leader, but with millions of individuals each choosing to do their part. That’s how we change the world—not with one sweeping gesture, but with every choice we make. Every time you choose compassion over anger, understanding over judgment, and action over apathy, you are contributing to a collective transformation. And that transformation begins with individual awareness and responsibility.
Embracing Mindfulness Amid Political Shifts
Practicing Mindfulness in a Politically Charged Environment
Mindfulness isn’t just some trendy buzzword—it’s a powerful tool to ground ourselves in moments of uncertainty. When the world feels chaotic, and when emotions are running high, the best thing we can do is pause, breathe, and bring ourselves back to the present. The present moment is where we have power. It’s where we can make decisions that align with our values, rather than reacting out of fear or anger.
Here’s a simple exercise that can help: every morning, take five minutes to sit quietly, breathe deeply, and ask yourself, How do I want to show up today? What kind of energy do I want to bring into my interactions? Who do I want to be, regardless of what’s happening around me? This practice can transform your day—and over time, it can transform your life. When you start your day with intention, you are more likely to act in ways that are aligned with your highest values.
Connecting with One’s Higher Self During Times of Change
When the world is noisy, you have to get quiet enough to hear your own inner voice—the voice of your Higher Self. That part of you that knows the truth, even when things seem uncertain. During times like this, connecting with your Higher Self isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. It’s the compass that keeps you pointed towards growth, love, and purpose.
Think of your Higher Self as the calm center within you that remains steady, no matter how chaotic the storm around you might be. When you connect with that part of yourself, you gain clarity. You gain the ability to see beyond the immediate moment, beyond the fear and the noise, to what truly matters. Remember: no external event has the power to determine who you are. That choice is always yours. The election results, the political climate, the news cycle—none of these have the power to define your worth, your purpose, or your potential. Only you can do that.
Take time each day to connect with that deeper part of yourself. Whether through meditation, journaling, or simply spending time in nature, find what works for you. The more you connect with your Higher Self, the more resilient you become. You realize that while you can’t control everything that happens in the world, you can control how you respond. And that response, rooted in mindfulness and awareness, is what makes all the difference.
The World’s Perspective and the Role of America in a Global Context
International Reactions and Reflections on Leadership
The eyes of the world are on America right now. People everywhere are forming opinions, taking sides, and wondering what comes next. But more important than what the world thinks of us is how we see ourselves. How do we define our role on the global stage? What kind of leadership do we want to embody—not just in politics, but in our everyday lives?
Leadership isn’t about being perfect; it’s about striving to be better. It’s about recognizing our mistakes, learning from them, and doing better. And that kind of leadership starts at home—with each of us. It starts with how we treat our neighbors, how we speak to those who disagree with us, and how we show up in our communities. True leadership is about accountability and empathy, and it’s about being willing to listen, to understand, and to grow.
The Ripple Effect: How American Politics Impacts the World
It’s important to realize that our choices don’t just affect us—they impact the entire world. The decisions we make, the leaders we choose, the way we treat each other—all of it sends ripples out across the globe. Are those ripples ones of hope, unity, and progress, or are they waves of division and fear? The truth is, our actions today will affect future generations—not just here, but everywhere.
Imagine a world where the ripple effect of our actions is one of compassion, understanding, and positive change. Imagine a future where the choices we make today create a better tomorrow—not just for us, but for people all over the world. That’s the power we have. The power to create ripples that inspire, uplift, and heal. Let’s not take that responsibility lightly. Let’s make choices that align with our highest values, not just for ourselves, but for the world we want to leave for our children and grandchildren.
A Call for Unity and Forward Thinking
We’re at a pivotal moment, and while it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, remember this: you have more power than you think. Every act of kindness, every moment of reflection, every choice to respond with love instead of fear—it all adds up. Imagine a future where we look back on this election not as a time of despair, but as the moment we chose to grow, to heal, to unite.
Take this opportunity to reflect, to breathe, to act with purpose. You matter. Your choices matter. Together, we have the power to shape a future filled with understanding, compassion, and unity. Let’s not wait for others to change—let’s lead the way.
The change starts with you. You are capable, you are strong, and together, we can create the future we all deserve. Believe it. Act on it. And watch how your life—and the world—transforms.
Aṣe?
