On Nov. 5, we lost the elections. Many of us will need to grieve that loss. I know I will. I also know I cannot allow myself the luxury of wallowing.

I admit that the Biden/Harris administration was not perfect. But in a world of complexity that exceeds our current political capacities, the legislative good they accomplished was nothing short of amazing. The number of lives saved with their response to COVID, the successful support of a greener and more just economy, the most powerful recovery from recession and the most successful battle against inflation in recent history are all nothing short of incredible.

And yes, the Harris/Walz team’s performance made me proud. In a time when messages of cruelty, disenfranchisement, gross dishonesty and attacks on individuals seem to have carried the day, I remain nourished by their ideals of inclusivity, justice for all, caring for those less fortunate, entrepreneurialism and innovation. And, I so deeply value the joy and positive energy that Kamala shared with us.

And yet we lost. So how do we now come together?

No simple answers. But keeping alive some small portion of our hearts, minds and hands with hope and some energy for understanding and reconciliation is a start  even a necessity if our children, our neighbors and so many vulnerable people here and around the world are to live with peace, dignity, freedom and opportunity – including those against whom we have battled so hard. There is much to build together.

Bernard Mohr
Portland