Many of us would be quick to agree that 2018 was like a rollercoaster, weighing heavily on instability and chaos caused by the maniacal and embarrassing actions of our president. While you have some who are unyielding in their support for the president, regardless of what he says or does, we must acknowledge (good or bad) that he is a reflection of how we are viewed throughout the world. His decisions and actions will adversely affect the country for years to come. His continuance in manifesting leadership lacking veracity, morals, or honor can only be attributed to his warped sense of entitlement. He sees himself as being above the law, and his loyal base will faithfully support him unquestionably.

Going forward in 2019, we must confront the reality of what we are becoming as a nation. As a whole, are we willing to fight or accept the dire consequences of having a tyrannical hedonist leading our country? Those supporting this president must introspectively examine themselves and honestly note the lack of redeeming values and traits that make them identify with this president. As it stands now, he is associated with hate, racism, divisionism, lies, deceit, immorality and lasciviousness. These are characteristics and behaviors unbecoming to the office of president of the United States. Whether or not one identifies or supports his policies based on one’s political party, can one divorced one’s self of what he morally represents? What do his followers represent by supporting him?

Going forward in 2019, we must decide if we as a nation are willing to fight and work together to resurrect the dignity and respect once attributed to the office of the presidency. If not, we are consciously (or by acquiescing) allowing the demons of hate, racism, deceit, injustice, lies, immorality and inhumanity to continue to infiltrate our country. This downward spiral toward eliminating all the virtues we once admired and demanded from our leaders must be put to a halt. We must come together as a nation and compromise, working diligently to put what is in the best interests of the country ahead of our own personal, selfish agendas. We must work toward incorporating practices and policies that are inclusive, morally right, and representative of the humanitarian values we claim to adhere to so ardently. We must stop living a lie and truly advocate for justice and freedom for all—not just continuing to pander to big corporations and the wealthy.

I would like to believe the desire to make this country morally conscious would be the most important goal of 2019. There was a time when the virtues associated with decency were heralded and expected, especially in elected officials. These were virtues taught and instilled in our children, startingfrom infancy. As it stands now, it appears too many of us have become desensitized, turning a blind eye to blatant acts of indecent conduct and behavior once considered unacceptable.

This country is worth saving if we all work together, setting aside our differences—differences that can be amended, using our inherent humanitarian sense of love, respect and caring. This should take top priority going forward in 2019. Let’s be harbingers of love, righteousness and truth as we go forward to make 2019 a special and rewarding year.