1. I swear some people act like America was perfect before Trump. Like we had “free and fair” elections (with Gerrymandering and voter suppression). Like authoritarian fascist police tactics are new here in these United States when black folks have been dealing with it forever.

2. Make no mistake—somehow— I love my country. I served it in uniform and believe in the ideals. I reserve the right to criticize her flaws in an effort to reach that ideal of a more perfect union.

3. Once you break away from the FACADE of this perfect and flawless America where all of our sins are mere remnants of the past, you can better press toward a brighter future without freaking the fuck out about everything that’s happening.

4. Forgive my frustration but I need you to buck up my friends. I mean that with love and I have empathy toward your fears. I do. It’s a scary time. It’s human.

But Remember—Democracy is earned. Freedom isn’t free. We need each other and fear must be overcome.