Whew!!! Election Day has come and (kind of) gone. As this was written, much uncertainty surrounds the outcome of the biggest race of the election.

Regardless, let’s try our hardest to be mindful that we are all Americans first and foremost. Yes, it certainly is difficult to do, especially if you are on the “side(s)” not winning.

We live in a country where — whether it’s Harris or Trump — half of those voting, millions and millions, will be unhappy with the outcome. But we must persevere against the divisiveness and sheer vitriol and move forward. Democracy first. America first. Right? That is a mindset we must embrace. Ask someone living under a communist regime or in a poverty infested third-world country if they would swap places with you.

Veterans Day is near. Thousands and thousands of American military patriots died to preserve our right to vote — our right to exist in a democracy. If that alone did not compel you to exercise your right to vote, what would have? If you did not vote, then shut up. Especially when it comes to those idiotic social platforms.

Thanks to all the poll workers and volunteers involved in the Democratic process. It can be thankless at times. Thanks to the candidates and their supporters who will will not wait until, say, Christmas to remove hundreds of political signs dotting our landscapes. Get rid of them now. There is enough litter out there.

Through it all, sadly, America remains bitterly divided. Let’s hope there are no post-election angry protests or destructive rioting. Many worry citizens will lash out inappropriately if they are dissatisfied when final results emerge. That is a shame.

We all must acknowledge that divisiveness must end. Finger-pointing, hate and anger toward those who think or act differently than we do is not the answer. Indeed, we all are human, and it is not our place to judge. Admittedly with human nature being what it is, most of us are judgmental. Let’s try to be at least a bit more open-minded.

We must have faith and respect in the system. At the end of the day, acting out angrily will not help. It is time now for healing. Haven’t we been divided long enough?