Senior Pastor T.D. Jakes of Potter's House who has recently been on Tamron Hall's MSNBC segment to discuss the "shock, grief over election outcome," offers five critical actions Americans should be taking now to heal the nation.
Before he gives the five actions on his website, he starts by saying people should acknowledge that "We are one." Despite all the tribulations experienced in the recent elections, there should never be a feeling of being alone, or having to fight the challenges alone.
Here are the five actions recommended that Americans should start and acknowledge right now:
"Applaud the democratic process."
Pastor Jakes says that Americans take for granted their right to vote and freedom of speech, whereas in the 19th century, women were not even given the chance to vote. Also in other parts of the world, people are not given the freedom to live and reach their full potentials because of poverty, wars, and inequalities. Americans should therefore be thankful for having the right to have their voices heard, and their votes counted.
"Be gracious in defeat and humble in victory."
Jakes says that people should be more accepting of reality, and steer away from crying over spilled milk. It is important to "recognize that the desires of the people were bigger than the candidates and their many shortcomings." Whether the candidate wins or loses, what matters is to be graceful in accepting the outcome.
"Forgive family, friends, co-workers, and others who did not embrace your candidate."
The Pastor says that the recent elections may have caused a division between and among relatives and friends. It is important to note that one's election choice is not a reflection of a person's character, so, people should stop judging others just because of their presidential vote. Now that the results are out and the U.S. will be having a new leader for the next four years, people should learn to forgive and let go.
"Don't just sing 'God Bless America'; rather, 'bless' and not 'curse' America with your words."
The Pastor shares that it is ironic that Americans sing "God Bless America," however, their actions show otherwise. Through cursing and hate speech, negativity abounds and it is not helping the country move forward.
"Make the Pledge of Allegiance a personal affirmation."
Americans should find it as an opportunity to confirm their pledge to uphold America's values whenever they do the "Pledge of Allegiance." People should be aware and sincere when they utter each word, especially when it comes to this: "I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."
The Pastor ends in encouraging the people to "keep the faith... and be a part of the solution."
