I woke up this morning like many of you today feeling a certain kind of way. There are those that feel elated, those that feel devastated and a few that may be apathetic. If you go on social media, you will find comments like, “I am devastated, embarrassed, sad, and hopeless”.

These are strong emotions for anyone to have or bear. Yet we are experiencing them collectively. If we can experience this negativity collectively, we can also collectively experience positivity.

Being collectively connected is important. We, as people, are collectively connected in many profound ways that transcend borders, cultures, and individual experiences. At our core, we experience similar emotions—joy, love, fear, and sadness—which create an understanding and compassion, allowing us to relate to one another despite different backgrounds. Through shared experiences, culture, and media, we develop a collective consciousness—shared beliefs, values, and knowledge that shape how we perceive the world. This collective mindset influences social norms and unites us in addressing common issues.

 Many of us share aspirations for a better world—peace, equity, and progress. These shared goals drive international collaboration, humanitarian efforts, and social movements, reflecting our collective desire to improve life for all. Each individual action can ripple out to affect others. This interconnectedness inspires empathy, responsibility, and a sense of belonging to something larger than ourselves.

Now before I lose those that think this is a lot of crazy BS lets bring in some science. I recently listened to a pod cast by Dr. Bruce Lipton. He earned his Ph.D. in developmental biology from the University of Virginia and has conducted extensive research in cell biology. In his book The Biology of Belief: Unleashing the Power of Consciousness, Matter, & Miracles , he discusses a number of scientific studies and experiments that demonstrate how thoughts and beliefs influence outcomes, both individually and collectively. A notable concept he presents is the “Placebo Effect”—where positive beliefs lead to healing outcomes, essentially showing how the mind’s expectations shape physical health. Additionally, he contrasts this with the “Nocebo Effect,” illustrating how negative beliefs can produce harmful effects on health.

The point I am trying to make is that, if you are “feeling a certain kind of way”, we hold the power to shift our perspective—not only for ourselves but also on a larger scale. Now, more than ever, it is time to reclaim a united America. Regardless of our differences, let’s remember to be kind to those we disagree with. I know you may be thinking, “How can I be kind to someone whose views clash so strongly with my own?”.  Well, I am here to tell you like our parents taught us as children, two wrongs will never make a right. Healing will only come when we temper our anger with compassion, realizing that every action has a reaction. Hate cannot create love, and division cannot build unity.

That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t stand up for what we believe in, especially when we see values and rights at risk. Fighting for what’s right doesn’t require hate—it requires strength, resilience, and a commitment to positive action. This gives me a deep sense of hope that our journey isn’t over and that each of us has the power to drive real change. When we replace divisive thoughts with a commitment to integrity and respect, we don’t just stand up for what matters; we also inspire others to rise above anger and negativity. Together, we can choose to protect our rights in a way that uplifts us all, fostering a spirit of unity even in our differences.

Patricia A Woods  PAW talks optimistically