Preparing For The Apocalypse: Or How To Fight The (Toxic) Patriarchy, Part Five

 

Okay, so it's gonna get dark, darker than it already it is, when it comes to the social media influences of rants and raves with hollow and illogic information, filled with fear based emotional underpinnings.  Thus, it is vitally important that to prepare for this coming apocalypse one be fully and regularly educated.  This may seem a daunting reality when placed alongside the other parts in this series, self-care and healthy community interactions especially.  But, if done in a mindful way that can be organized neatly into one's own daily schedule, it is a tool in the box, a weapon in the arsenal of love, that can be brought out without effort.  

As a professional gig-worker, one of my regular gigs is as a dog-walker.  I can walk up to three hours a day with dogs across town, driving to and fro, in between running errands, then afterwards running to a life modeling gig.  Within that time, it affords me the ability to turn on a news, current events, and politically focused podcasts instead of other listening options.  Truth be told, I do vary my media diet with some fun 'bubble-gum' types, like 9021OMG, Fly On The Wall with Dana Carvey & David Spade, and Drunk Ex-Pastors to name a few, self care is important and having fun is an important part of such.  In addition, I have a regular news feed app that drops articles throughout the day based on breaking and updated news.  I am an avid fan of Youtube and follow many a channel, such as Crooked Media, Brian Tyler Cohen, and The Young Turks, which provide commentary and information about current events.  These podcasts, videos, and articles I share regularly as I consume them.  I do my best to not share memes on social media, but rather flood my social media sites with actual research done.  In the age of such heightened technology, the ease of research is one to be taken advantage of with utter mindful focus.

I state, with utter mindful focus, because it is vitally important to understand that within every news media source as well as every human being ever there is an inherent bias.  With all the news media and commentary podcasts and videos I consume, I am grateful that as each host reports and comments on news and current events they understand and openly recognize their own inherent bias as well as that of the company they represent.  As well, I must understand and openly recognize my own inherent bias within myself, based on my upbringing, my own privileges, education, and life experiences afforded me.  

Understanding and recognizing one's own bias, now it's time to begin the journey of personal education and research, for the greater good as well as for your own.  Limit not your research to that of current events and the political, study history to see just how we find ourselves 'doomed to repeat', as well as your own personal interests that light up your life.  A well-rounded human being that regularly educates themselves is one developing the skill of critical thinking, which more than anything else, will enhance the degree of communicating with those that agree and disagree, helping to soothe the emotional arguments that divide, helping to bring unity. 

Do Your Own Research - Original Song

Media sites I regularly consume:

Crooked Media: https://crooked.com/

The Bulwark: https://www.thebulwark.com/about

Today Explained: https://www.vox.com/

The Intercept: https://theintercept.com/

The Young Turks: https://tyt.com/home

Brian Tyler Cohen: https://briantylercohen.com/

Barefoot Dancing (Coffee Chat & Book Review) #coffeechat #bookreview #ba...

Preparing For The Apocalypse: Or How To Fight The (Toxic) Patriarchy, Part Four

 

Know your privilege.  As we brace for the upcoming storm wherein rights of many will be stripped away, it's important to understand the position of fortune those of us have that are not marginalized.  Even more, to understand that while we may have some privileges that afford us there are other ways we, too, may have weakness.  For instance, I am a cis-gender white person, however, I also carry a dual mental health diagnoses,  am asexual, and, above all, gasp, am a woman.  The latter three are areas which may become issues of deprivation by a ruling power in the coming years.  But in order to maintain strength, I focus on that which I do have, the former two, never forgetting the latter three.

In the position of privilege, it is important to honor with a commitment to help uplift and persevere the rights of those that do not share the privileges afforded.  We must, then, not only, accept, know, hold gratitude for, but seek to use such with mindful responsibility.

As the days tumble forth into weeks, then years, of the coming administration, how can we look beyond our personal fears and recognize our position of personal power? How can we, then, be a voice for those who cannot speak?  How can we enact change, fight for the continuance of our freedoms, not just for ourselves but for all, especially those at risk of persecution? For my part, it's found in this blog series, in choosing to align myself with organizations at risk through donating, signing my name on a petition, sharing research, articles, videos, podcasts daily on social media, and, most importantly, actively listening as I check in one on one with loved ones and those in my community.

Know your privilege.  Then, continue forward.  

When the silence isn’t quiet 

And it feels like it’s getting hard to breathe 

And I know you feel like dying 

But I promise we’ll take the world to its feet

 And move mountains

 Bring it to its feet 

And move mountains

 And I’ll rise up

Andra Day - Rise Up (Lyrics)

Preparing For The Apocalypse: Or How To Fight The (Toxic) Patriarchy, Part Three #give #donate #bebetter

 

When I was a fundie Christian, I was told by the church that in all means possible we were to 'give until it hurts'.  Now, I do not advocate for that anymore, rather, if you see the first entry of this series on 'self-care' (https://artistthriving.blogspot.com/2024/11/preparing-for-apocalypse-or-how-to.html), I believe that caring for oneself should always take precedence over giving, for without fully feeling well within, giving begins to dwell within the realm of codependent martyrdom, followed by resentment. 

Nay, the giving we provide as we voyage bravely into the dark reality approaching must be developed in mindfulness.  With special care and deliberation, we give in ways small and ways large, both on a personal level and that which is for the greater society.  Last spring, my company filmed a short film of which a good friend was an extra.  This last week, I gave her a small 'thank you' gift for her work done.  As she struggles with her fears of the oncoming four years, her face brightening with such a small token received was all that was needed as repayment.  Another friend, in her twenties renting a room with a bunch of house-mates with no garden space available, will be gifted a small in-home garden kit.  Regularly, I compile a bag of items no longer needed by me and take them down to my local cafe that has a 'free-box' bookshelf.  At that same cafe, another friend, Michael, unhoused, dwells and as much as I can I hand over a five dollar bill as well buying him birthday and holiday meals.  As well, I consider sorting out the recycling and carting them down to my local center a gift given to my 'mother earth'.  As I walk through my city, I pick up garbage left behind after the wind blows.  Sharing this not to boast of my own greatness but rather to reflect with the ease of giving.

On a larger social level, in the next month, I plan on sitting with my finances and thinking deeply on what organizations to monthly benefit.  I know now that $10 a month will go towards Planned Parenthood, another $10 a month to the Trevor Project, and am wanting to find other worthy organizations with the focus on environmental and housing concerns, both with the $10 a month limit.  The point of this is to share how, as daunting as the next four years seems, as overwhelming as to what we can do feels, giving in the minute leads to a far-reaching wide influence.

In the supposed words of Jesus above, the small acts of kindness given will be benefited right back upon the giver.  For the simple deed of one person giving to another leads to more, as the receiver feels the uplifting to carry the gift forward.  As the darkness of hate, bigotry, mysogyny, and 'toxic patriarchy ushers in the apocalypse, we must actively decide to take the first step against, that which, as Michelle Obama declared, "when they go low, we go high".  Actively and daily choose to be better than the darkness, not giving into the sin of hate, but rising above unto the realm of love.  For in that place, your peace and healing will be recovered and once acquired that gift you can extend towards others.

Viva La Revolution, dear friend, it begins within.

Like a small boat on the ocean
Sending big waves into motion
Like how a single word
Can make a heart open
I might only have one match
But I can make an explosion

Rachel Platten - Fight Song (Lyrics)

https://www.plannedparenthood.org/

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

Preparing For The Apocalypse: Or How To Fight The (Toxic) Patriarchy, Part Two

 

As I was preparing for the next entry in this series, I was meditating further on what else is needed to prepare for the coming apocalypse, so much is needed both internally and externally.  But, as I go about my day, the resounding theme that comes to the fore-front following the need for 'self-care' is the vastness of community.  

Merriam-Webster defines "Community" as: 
: a unified body of individuals: such as
a
: the people with common interests living in a particular area
broadly : the area itself
the problems of a large community
b
: a group of people with a common characteristic or interest living together within a larger society
a community of retired persons
a monastic community
c
: a body of persons of common and especially professional interests scattered through a larger society
the academic community
the scientific community
d
: a body of persons or nations having a common history or common social, economic, and political interests
the international community
e
: a group linked by a common policy
f
: an interacting population of various kinds of individuals (such as species) in a common location

Thus, the idea of community spans wide.  Personally, I have always thought of community as simply "common unity" and what a better unifier of commonality than the dreaded existential reality of doom we collectively face in our country and world upcoming. 

So, it's the coming together in that collective brokenness, of truly, authentically listening, being present, holding space, hearts, and each other.  In small quiet moments and sometimes large, seeking ways to give love and support, an ever present reminder that we are not alone, together in our suffering, we will overcome.

Rainbow Connection with lyrics By Sarah Mclachlan

What's so amazing that keeps us stargazing?
And what do we think we might see?

Preparing For The Apocalypse: Or How To Fight The (Toxic) Patriarchy, Part One #fightthegoodfight #fightfascism

 

Like many in the United States, I've spent much of my time going about in deep thought and worry about the future of my country's democracy with the impending reality of a second Trump presidency.  Fearing for the rights, freedoms, and safety of those I dearly love, including myself, I ponder the overwhelming "Why?" followed quickly by the "How?" finally ending with "What then?"  

The "What then" is what I wish to reflect upon in a series of this blog, "Preparing For The Apocalypse (Or How To Fight The Toxic Patriarchy).  In each entry, I will focus on one arena of life that can assist in the path towards healing and overcoming the toxicity that threatens to consume, what we can do to maintain our strength and sanity.  Resoundingly, what comes into my mind first, is the all important "self care".  Often a tossed about buzz word or even a 'get out of jail free card' manipulative ploy, nevertheless, the truth of its import still remains.  So, what does it mean to care for oneself?  What is the benefit of such?  And, what are some ways to care for oneself?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Self Care is defined as "the ability of individuals, families and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a health worker" as well recognizes "individuals as active agents in managing their own health care".  (https://www.who.int/health-topics/self-care#tab=tab_1)

In an article from the Southern New Hampshire University, regularly employing a self-care routine has been "clinically proven to reduce or eliminate anxiety and depression, reduce stress, improve concentration, minimize frustration and anger, increase happiness, improve energy and more" as well are numerous physical benefits including longevity of life.  A regularly practiced self care routine will benefit physical health, greatly improve mental and emotional well-being, increase productivity and focus, make relationships healthier and better, increase self esteem and feelings of self worth, and, lastly, prevent burnout.  ( https://www.snhu.edu/about-us/newsroom/health/what-is-self-care )

These benefits of self care are what is greatly needed in order to prepare for, survive in the fight against the toxic patriarchy.  

So, how does one establish and practice self care?  In a life busy with the realities of adulting coupled with the increasing rise of 'fascism', how does one find the time? But, in order to prepare, to survive, and fight in the coming apocalypse, find the time for self care we must.  

From Marquette Today, Marquette University: Here are some practical tips for incorporating self-care into your daily routine:

• Start with small steps: Begin by identifying activities that bring you joy and relaxation and allocate time for them regularly.
• Create a self-care routine: Develop a schedule that includes self-care activities and treat them as non-negotiable appointments with yourself.
• Practice mindfulness: Be present in the moment and engage fully in the self-care activities you choose.
• Set boundaries: Learn to say no to activities or commitments that overwhelm you and prioritize your own well-being.
• Seek support: Reach out to trusted friends, family or professionals when you need assistance or guidance.

https://today.marquette.edu/2024/08/the-importance-of-self-care-for-maintaining-mental-health/

Thus, let's begin today with an ongoing and active self-care routine, the first weapon in our arsenal to fight against fascism, to prepare for the apocalypse, and fight the toxic patriarchy.

I'll Build A Stairway To Paradise

I'll build a Stairway to Paradise,
With a new Step ev'ry day.
I'm going to get there at any price;
Stand aside, I'm on my way!
I got the blues
And up above it's so fair;
Shoes,
Go on and carry me there!
I'll build a Stairway to Paradise
With a new Step ev'ry day.

You Are Talking About Me #election2024 #americanpolitics

 

Yesterday I felt like expelling so loudly, a terrified, stress-induced scream.  I didn't, at that moment, I held it back.  I was near downtown in my small city and although if anyone asked, I told them it was in response to recent events tied to my country's current political affairs, they no doubt would understand, I still refrained.  Added to that, I was walking a dog, whose sensitivity to such would worry him to no end, as he could never comprehend.  This past week I have been fortunate enough to spend my time with many a beloved pet, whose existence has not altered as the current political strain of the human world touches them not.  Their simple joy in the little things of life is desirable and a constant lesson for me to slow down, breathe, and embrace the reality of their world.  No, not to escape or distract from the truth of my human existence, but as a healing balm to strengthen and maintain a semblance of peace, stability, and security.

Once, when I was a Christian, I had a dear friend share with me about how her daughter in high school spoke up when her friends were bad mouthing Christianity with "You are talking about me" which silenced their bad talking.  Now, I am not a Christian any longer and I ain't trying to plug Christianity, but the significance of those five words holds weight alongside the current state of my country.  

In my life, I have aligned myself with different political ideologies based on different phases of my life, Democrat from youthful family origin, to the brief "Republican before MAGA" when I was a Fundie, to a stint in the Green Party, to now "Progressive" democrat from a growing information based personal decision.  Because of this, it affords me an unique understanding and affinity for those I care for in each of the political parties.  Yes, I have a strong memorable connection to a tried and true blue democrat, a green party liberal, the Never Trumper, and even the now advancing MAGA party.  In each, I have a memory of special times and a warm sense of love that never will die no matter the politic or change in relationship.  Yet, that doesn't mean that I condone the negative aspects of the beliefs that I feel are harmful and toxic, but only that I remember the love, though it may be buried.

With this in mind, I proclaim, "You are talking about me". 

No matter the political party, I hear the same refrain of blame ringing through alongside a lack of human compassion.  With friends that are more 'green party' affiliated, I hear the blame on all of America, both liberal and political, as fake, corrupt, stemming from a place built around conspiracy theories.  With this in mind, I proclaim, "You are talking about me".  On the opposite side of the spectrum, I hear the hate-filled spewing of the MAGA, with their self-righteous desire to assume Christianity while being anything but, they seek to 'own the liberal' and celebrate with lack of compassion.  With this in mind, I proclaim, "You are talking about me".  This proclamation is meant to give each pause to reflect, to stop in the tracks, and help recall what each of us must, that far deeper than the boundary of country, we are human beings doing our best to live, survive, thrive the human frailty of condition. 

You don't own me, don't try to change me in any way

 You don't own me, don't tie me down

 'cause I'd never stay I don't tell you what to say 

I don't tell you what to do

 So just let me be myself 

That's all I ask of you

Lesley Gore - You Don't Own Me (lyrics)

Journaling Through The Years, Ep. 101: The Rollerblader Love Triangle

In this episode, I read a crazy story I wrote loosely based on a guy I had a crush on and another friend in high school, lots of laughs as we roller blade through this tale of romance & woe. Check out merch & websites they are supporting: National Suicide Prevention Hotline (24 hours): 18002738255 Text Home to: 741741 If you are struggling with your mental health, you and your life matter. Contact NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) at: nami.org nami-so.org The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org/ Merchandise: https://www.bonfire.com/jesus-lt3-queer/ From now until the end of July, get 10% when you use the code "PRIDE4FREEDOM https://www.bonfire.com/timekeys-band... https://www.bonfire.com/timekeys-fan-... https://www.bonfire.com/recovery-sexy From now until the end of July, get 10% when you use the code "RECOVERY4EVER Listen to the FanGirlHour: https://anchor.fm/fangirling

Journaling Through The Years, Episode 101 Teaser: The Roller Bladers Lov...

#journaling #relivemychildhood

Jesus <3 Queer Pride = Freedom
From now until the end of July, get %10 off your purchase of any "Jesus <3 Queer" merchandise when you use the code: "Pride4Freedom"
https://www.bonfire.com/jesus-lt3-queer/

Love to be a loyal and supportive ally of LGBTQAI just like Shane Malone, Sherry Grimes, Martie Hargraves, & Alina Squires

A portion of the proceeds goes to The Trevor Project & to recoup expenses for the short film, I AM FINE

https://www.thetrevorproject.org/

 

 

Jesus Queer Pride = Freedom

From now until the end of July, get %10 off your purchase of any "Jesus Queer" merchandise when you use the code: "Pride4Freedom"

https://www.bonfire.com/jesus-lt3-queer/

Love to be a loyal and supportive ally of LGBTQAI just like Shane Malone, Sherry Grimes, Martie Hargraves, & Alina Squires

 

I listened to the #BidenTrumpdebate. Here are my thoughts.

 

Rachel Platten - Fight Song (Lyrics)

This is my fight song
Take back my life song
Prove I'm alright song
My power's turned on 
Starting right now I'll be strong
I'll play my fight song
And I don't really care if nobody else believes
'Cause I've still got a lot of fight left in me

Last Wednesday, while on a dog walk, I began the process, with marked trepidation of listening, yes, listening to the full debate from start to finish on the podcast "How To Win 2024" MSNBC affiliated. Truth be told, the nature of the flexibility of my child-free life and flexible work schedule, I have the ability to consume large amounts of media, specifically podcasts, related to current events, political news, and commentary. Because of this, I feel I am well-versed in the nuance of this election, the risks we face as a country, coupled with an ability to utilize critical thinking based on my past experiences in different sides of the political spectrum. Due to my expansive life history of exploration, I have been aligned with the Democrats, based on how I was raised, then a chosen fundamentalist Christian practicing conservative Republican during the McCain/Obama era, mind you, before Maga, then Green Party for a season...and now finally deciding upon where I choose to align myself, not an outside influence, leaning towards Progressive Democrat or even, Democrat Socialist, haven't fully decided as of yet. (Whew, I might be a MAGA or Conspiracy Theorist Leftie with that run-on sentence!)

So, yes, I listened, which afforded me to advantages. I did not witness the body physicality of President Biden that seemed the most disastrous yet this allowed me to truly listen to what was being said and expressed by both candidates. Furthermore, I have spent the last few days pouring over diligently, reading and listening, commentaries across the aisle on the debate, the possible next steps moving forward for Biden, and the risk to our country as a whole. Yet, as a listener of the debate, truly taking in what President Biden was saying and hearing the blatant lies repeatedly of Trump, I have to say I still remain impressed and dedicated with our current sitting President. In addition, I watched his Friday interview with George Stephanopoulos and still saw someone who, despite some challenges with fatigue, stress, and a known stutter, was able to communicate his thoughts, his decisions, and intentions.

Yet truth be told, I am not one versed in the matters of importance when it comes to running the government and its needs, whether as politician, commentator, or journalist. Furthermore, despite my ongoing studies, expansive history, constant striving for critical thinking, I admit my bias, as we all must do. As the days tumble forth for us lay-people, it is imperative that not only do we seek to understand and to remain currently aware, we must remember that it is decision not fully in our capabilities. Yes, we may be living in the times the (not really) Chinese curse decried "May You Live In Interesting Times" but still life continues thus for us. In the midst of these struggles and fears, it is vitally imperative we continue to seek the joys in the simplicity of life, embracing that which makes our world better within and with those we connect daily, finding healing for ourselves and the collective, such that we can continue to have the vitality to fight for the rights of #wethepeople.

Truth be told, the full quote is: May you live in interesting times, may you come to the attention of those in authority, and may the gods give you everything you ask for", so that perhaps it may not actually be a curse but rather a cry for intention.

Kelly Clarkson - Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You) [Official Video]

You didn't think that I′d come back
I'd come back swinging
You try to break me, but you see
What doesn′t kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller

Life Models In Art History

 I have completed this video series on the 'Life Models in Art History'. I recall a year ago sitting in the community college class talking with the teacher, curiously wondering who these people were who came before me....and the journey began, diving deep into library book, wikipedia, internet search, youtube videos. My life and career has been enriched beyond my wildest imagination by spending time with each of these individuals.

And, with their guidance and help, I announce the launch of my course, "Life Model 101", for more information: www.cafegirlproductionsinc.com

Watch the series here:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGOU8yQsa5RF3m1vlbIL_PC6f6bjfRZQa

Special Thank You for those who assisted in birthing these videos: Michael Meyer, Ray Nomoto Robison, Jade Chavis, Dana Tannarome, & Kate Burkhardt

With the most heartfelt gratitude for Dora, Emilie, Jane, Kiki, Julie, Agnes, Audrey,

Isaku, Lilli, Fanny, Loie, & Victorine

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt32453833/reference/

#lifemodel101 #arthistory #artmodelsinhistory #doramaar #emiliekloge #janeavril #aliceprin #juliemanet #agnessorel #audreymunson #isakuyaniahara #lillielbe #loiefuller #victorinemeurent

Life Model 101 Explained

I choose to use the term, Life Model, or art model, but you'll often hear it referred to as "artist model". However, for me, when I hear artist model, it connotes the model as possession of the artist, yet I and the models introduced in this series, are not and were not the possession or object, a still life, of the artist. We are forever our own person and artist working together with the artist to bring forth the vision of the creation.

#lifemodel101 #coach #workshop #artmodel #lifemodel

I shared a stage with a bully & it was terrifying. #BidenTrumpDebate

In 2014, I was cast in the play, God Of Carnage, for a local theatre company.  Excited for the challenge of such a dynamic and powerful story, I entered my first rehearsal with enthusiasm to meet my cast and director.  If you are unfamiliar with the storyline of God Of Carnage, it showcases two married couples coming together to work through a school-yard fight between their children.  As the weeks went on, one of the male actors would prove himself to be narcissistic and bullying.  He quickly manipulated his 'married' female counterpart and any that weren't swayed were considered an enemy to undermine.  Only a year out of an abusive marriage, being in the same room with him, no doubt sharing a stage, was trying and terrifying.  I recall standing up on stage with him, scenes of intense emotion, ankles shaking, yet as loyal as I am to my craft and art, to the theatre, to this particular play, the director, my other co-star, I continued night after night, show after show, to mount the stage at his side.  

It helped immensely that my male counterpart, my director, and stage manager were aligned with me in recognizing the abuse of this actor. However, after the show closed, I watched as his acclaim continued in the local theatre scene.  Feeling alone and at risk of losing roles, I stood silent, said nothing, tried to smile in his presence, to be friendly in the face of his derision towards me as he continued to try to make it appear as if I was the 'mean unprofessional one'.  I knew the truth yet still felt silenced as this was still a few years before the #MeToo movement would become more visible.   Then, several years later, a play was announced to be directed by this man at another local theatre.  A good friend of mine worked as costume designer for the show and as production progressed, she began confiding in me of the atrocities she witnessed both personally and collectively by this man, including bullying and sexual misconduct, resulting in multiple young actresses leaving the production due to fear, announcing #MeToo on social media directly afterwards, and his being banned from the theatre.  As much as I felt horrible for these actors who suffered, I felt, at last, vindicated in the abuse I suffered, no longer, alone in my recognition of his true character.

Over the last year, in response to seeing dear friends be radicalized by this horrifical MAGA right, I have become a very avid consumer and sharer of a wide variety of political and current events articles, from across the aisle, mind you.  Yes, that's right, I follow the news media companies, "Crooked Media" (progressive),  The Intercept (far left), and The Bulwark (Republican) on a regular basis, just to name a few, and share them regularly.  In addition, I do not align myself completely with President Biden or would even label myself as a 'democrat', rather, I am leaning towards 'progressive' or 'democratic socialist'.  I haven't fully decided yet, but want to finally and fully make the choice of what affiliation for own myself, not based on how I was raised, religious connection, or personal friends.  Furthermore, I do not love President Biden simply because I hate Trump, in fact, I don't hate Trump or his followers.  And again, I have been pleasantly surprised by the enactments and bills passed by President Biden during his first term as well his ability to connect with and listen to the beliefs and thoughts of those who differ from his viewpoints.   

Last night, the first 2024 presidential debate between President Biden and Donald Trump occurred.  As I was working, I was unable to view in its entirety, but plan on doing so, yet even so I have been hungrily consuming information across the aisle on reports and thoughts on the debate.  Those reports are detailing Biden's raspy voice, his seemingly slow start where he seemed discombobulated, unable to formulate his thoughts, and ended with a seemingly incoherent sentence.  However, they did conclude that as the debate continued Biden strengthened his arguments.  Fears are rampant today, claiming that Biden is too old, frail, and possibly, on the road to dementia.  As the avid consumer that I am, I have been aware of a wide variety of interviews, State of The Unions, and conversations that President Biden has done and have not seen signs of dementia as reported or contrived by clever editing.  In addition, President Biden has been open about his struggles with a stutter and has worked to overcome, yet, in times of nervousness, stress, or fatigue it returns.  

Donald Trump has maliciously and incessantly attacked in a wide variety of ways those that oppose him, then lied about such, in an attempt to undermine, silence, nullify, in order for him to have all control and power.  A primary target of his has been his biggest opponent, President Biden.  As brave as President Biden was in calling for these debates, as much as he has done his best to not engage with the bullying, to tend first to the needs of the country and that of how the USA orients with the world affairs, as much as he has done to calm our fears, he is still a man walking onto a stage across from his bully.  Therefore, I do not feel the argument of 'too old, has dementia' is correct, nor do I feel Biden's people claiming he had a cold to be adequate, but rather to admit the trepidation he felt upon taking that stage.  No, I do not feel that would weaken him as his role of President, standing against heads of state and commanding power, but rather the opposite. In this post #MeToo, post covid19, post Trump era, when our country and the world has been shaken up from its patriarchal power revealing all of our inner biases, ignorance, inherent racism and misogynies, I feel the antidote and cure is to fully share our fears, our trepidations, inwardly and outwardly, then collectively applauding one another who take the stage standing up to and against the bullies.

https://www.verywellmind.com/stages-of-healing-after-narcissistic-abuse-5207997

https://highconflictinstitute.com/personality-disorders/malignant-narcissism-does-the-president-really-have-it/