I’m grateful for Trump (but not in the way that you think I am)

Before Trump got elected the first time, I considered myself an evangelical Christian.

I no longer consider myself an evangelical Christian. In fact, most Christians would not consider me a Christian at all. Here's why:

*I believe queer folx should have full rights, acceptance, and equality including marriage equality, gender-affirming healthcare, and inclusive policies.

*I support access to abortion, contraception, and comprehensive sex education, emphasizing bodily autonomy.

*I believe in advocacy for reparations, and support movements like Black Lives Matter. I don't support the notion of individual morality, but that our system is built to be against black and brown folx.

*I champion gender equality, critique traditional gender roles, and support intersectional feminism.

*I advocate for wealth redistribution, universal healthcare, and a robust social safety net.

*I support urgent action on climate change

I didn't realize before Trump was elected, how much my values opposed the values of the evangelical church. I now recognize that the very institution that I was a part of is the very institution that betrays my multiple marginalized identities-- my queerness, my neurodivergence, my asian cultural background.

I am grateful to Trump for showing me the dark side of the church and how much deconstruction was needed in order for me to be in touch with my spirituality right now. I don't have a lot more answers now, but I know that I don't worship white American evangelical Jesus anymore. I have a spirituality that is centered around:

-Acceptance for all, including those of other faiths

-love for everyone, even those that commit the most offensive acts of hate

-supporting bodily autonomy

-reconciliation and healing between humans and creation.

I am not writing this post in order to dismiss the very real pain that comes with welcoming in the new president, but I want to invite you to an opportunity to examine your values, even if they are very different from my own. I believe that every leader or person brings out more information around our unhealed parts. And it offers an opportunity for us to work on unfinished business.

I am working on healing my:

*internalized homophobia

*internalized white supremacy

*internalized self hatred

Let me know what resonates. Sending you so much love and support.