A Force of Mentality: You vs You

I believe it would be good for thehoopscreative to cover the discussion of what is happening in the world right now. We have always been on the topic of Covid, but now on top of that, we had a presidential election. The power of politics. Something I have never been a fan of, but I also understand the impact of choice and our voices. Because this also effects the game we play too. It becomes bigger than basketball during this time.

Now, even though international countries are onto their second lockdown, regulations, or additional protests, the world is still watching America. Will our new leader be the change we need? What laws will change? What are we going to do about being the highest risk country for Covid? A lot of anxiousness and critical decisions to come. Not realizing how long these ballot counts were going to take, I did have my fair share of anxiety during the election. There was a terrible pressure in my chest for about two days. All I could think about was the aftermath of the result. Regardless of who had won. There are groups of people here that have such a heavy belief towards their side, that violence and harassment is part of their agenda. I thought about friends/family that could lose rights or their healthcare/jobs. Even my own career too. Not that these things will definitely happen, but it crossed my mind on the possibilities. That's how dire the impact of this race was.

However, what was interesting about this election is that it was more than just about Covid or police brutality. It was about ourselves. I believe we are in an era, now more than ever before, where people are speaking up on anything and everything. We have the internet. We have social media. Probably the most dangerous yet effective devices in the world.

There is no more sweeping the dirt under the rug. We are lifting the rug and saying there is dirt here. We are saying we don't like it. We are telling the world, sharing it on many platforms, and even creating memes about it. The dirt is not disappearing anytime soon. We are asking ourselves "Why isn't anybody seeing the dirt and doing something about it?". Everyone is on their own side of the chess board. Competing and defending their crown.

There is a constant cycle of what we hear, how we see it, and what happens next. The world starts to become a trend in itself, which can be quite scary. Things just come and go. The feelings, emotions, and stress. Sometimes, that could seem quite depressing, but it also shows we know how to move on and try to do better.

However drastic or extreme an idea may sound to us, we are all still entitled to our own opinions. However, I don't agree with having an aggressive opinion. People who heavily belittle and disrespect others as part of their reasoning. That is toxic behavior. But, when you think about it, behavioral traits are learned or appreciated in various ways. Behavioral traits are taught to us. You don't just automatically get on the court and play basketball with others. You learn to play with people and find your voice. Your rhythm in nature. Depending on who you play with could also define how you play too. 

So, when I see people having negative reasoning, I wonder how they were taught to be that way. I will still express my voice, but try to recognize where I may overstep or what this other person is really about. Because my voice isn't perfect either. I am not always right and my flaws are just as necessary to recognize. 

The mindset of people truly comes to light when real moments occur. When I see reporters or media tell athletes to just focus on their "silly sport" and not politics, it really tells you how much they don't know how emotionally and mentally powerful you have to be to compete, or have competed, at a high level. Our voices matter too. We love our home just as much as the person delivering the mail everyday or the company owners. We are all people. 

Overall, this election was about you. It is the strangest year for all of us and all you must ask yourselves is how will your handle yourself? Will you be a good representation to your peers, family, or kids? Will you be mean to others for your own gain? Self-reflection is very key during this time period. I hope most of you find peace in that and be prepared to still live your truth. Still follow your dreams. While remembering that you have the power to control the narrative of your own opinions.