Today is Election Day and I’m hoping you cast your votes and then tune out the subsequent noise that is sure to follow. The prediction is that the coming weeks (probably longer) will be filled with lots of drama. My advice: walk away. Literally.

It is very exciting to see such an energized, record setting, voter turn out. Especially given the hurdles some voters had to overcome. I’m hoping this new realization of how important voting is (what I’m calling the turn on and tune in) sticks and voters remain engaged and keep utilizing their constitutional right to vote. The system only works if we participate.

In 1966 cultural icon Timothy Leary made history becoming famous for the concept, turn on, tune in, drop out. I realize this is a little different and I’m not advocating the use of psychedelics but I am suggesting you detach yourself from the impending noise. You’ve already turned on and tuned in doing your civic duty by getting to the polls or ballot box and should be proud of your community engagement. What we DON’T have to do is watch what is sure to be an example of some very sad behavior. So dropping out and ignoring the noise for awhile is what I am advocating.

I’m not suggesting we all fall into oblivion and become ignorant. Far from it. But after such a rough election year, we have all earned the right for a little self care. A break. We have successfully made it thru the election cycle. Six months ago I had my doubts. Today is only Tuesday. Am I the only one who feels like it should be Friday? Enjoy my pics from today’s walk. #iluvtowalk #baxteronthego #trinidadcalifornia #humboldt

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