My instinct is always “I’m going to give it a couple weeks and check back in to see where the dust settles.” Everyone take a breath so I can do that!

Thank you for this. I thought I was losing my mind here in a blue part of Ohio but talking to some people from the suburbs who are on a different planet. It’s been unsettling- somehow even more so than previously. I appreciate the explanation

My husband and I have been together for almost 20 years and you are completely correct. We go off, do different things. Talk about those different things we did.

I’m sure people are more worried about kids growing out of clothes and shoes, as well. That’s what’s on my mind, anyway. Funny they don’t hazard that as an example

Visiting a family member in NYC- I feel like being in a car is a hassle, parking, traffic doesn’t move, etc. When I get a chance for a subway I jump at it because it feels more free! They’re intentionally obtuse

No just no. I want my flu shot and I want my kids and husband to get theirs.

Do hospitals have any publicized opinions? Staff is usually required to get their yearly vaccines. I’m sure that, without them, sick calls would increase substantially

And I’m living in a state of constant repulsion.

Oh that is so awful. Just absolutely horrible thing to say

I feel the same way! When I see him or hear his voice I am chilled to the bone. How does someone end up like this?

“But we aren’t in exactly the same spot. We can’t compare it right unless we are.” So proud.

I have ideas- ensure safe health care if things go sideways during a pregnancy, free childcare, support for families. They’re against all of this, though, and have too many opinions on what the “right” family looks like

I can’t even find the way to express my disgust

I mean, local protests- on our news. Large easy to read analysis in our local paper. The loss of regional journalism has undoubtedly undermined our democracy

“Don’t have the cards.” “Won’t have a country any more.” “These are bad people.” I do always wonder at his abysmal vocabulary.

“Headache gray” will forever be one of my favorite simple descriptors in a song

I’m feeling really hopeless right now. This is horrible