How to celebrate post-election day

By Leala King in Election 2012, Entertainment, Front Page on Nov 7, 2012 8:49 / comments

Like a ticking time bomb, this year’s presidential election accumulated massive amounts of media the months leading to Nov. 6, finally exploding in a frenzy of returns and announcements last night.

Faced with the aftermath of what was predicted to be one of the closest elections in history, many might find themselves unprepared for a relatively normal society not occupied by votes, campaigns and policy. Below is a guide to help you through this post-election America, whether you are waving your flag to your preferred candidate’s victory, or weeping into it with disappointed tears.

(Josh Shettler/CU Independent)

First, I must say that it is important to remember to keep an open mind, no matter who wins the presidency. This country has seen an almost equal number of Democratic (16) and Republican (18) presidents, and even a few who don’t associate with either political party. Despite this, we are still here. I promise you the world will not end as a result of one person being elected into office, but please try to respect those who still hold on to the idea that one leader can make the world a better place.

Surround yourself with people who are on the same page as you, politically. Generally, political discussion has the danger of becoming very heated, very fast. If you’re with a person that you don’t agree with politically the day after election, things can get really ugly. Tensions and emotions will be high, and one ill-timed remark may be the trigger for a full on political brawl. So please, avoid conflict when you can.

A playlist can help anyone through different situations, whether they be good or bad. In honor of a win, “Party in the USA” by Miley Cyrus, “Touch the Sky” by Kayne West or “Spirit in the Sky” by Norman Greenbaum are great background music for a victory dance.

In the case of a loss, give yourself a chance to recoup with songs like “It Ends Tonight” by The All-American Rejects, “Chasing Pavements” by Adele or “Break Stuff” by Limp Bizket, if you’re really pissed.

Either way, begin your venting or celebrating with music, so your emotions have a chance to really bloom.

Lastly, indulge. Finally the months of annoying ads on YouTube and flamboyant advocates are a thing of the past. Enjoy a day at the spa or eat all the sushi you can handle – this is no time to hold back. The next four years will hopefully bring more employment, less omission of greenhouse gases, fair trade, equal rights and better education, regardless of the candidate. So make the most of your post-politics day, while you can.

Contact CU Independent Staff Writer Leala King at Leala.king@colorado.edu.