As we begin 2025, many of us have not yet recovered from the devastating results of the November election, putting Trump and the Republicans in control of the federal government. We are sad, angry, and/or despondent. How could the American people choose a convicted felon, a man liable for sexual abuse, as their president?

We are up against a clever con artist and habitual liar who seeks autocratic power and constantly strives to better his own well-being over that of our country. While it may be hard for many of us to come to grips with this very troubling situation, we must be clear about where we are and accept that this is the hand we’ve been dealt. Only then can we determine the best way to proceed in the new year.

First, we need to regain a sense of personal safety and security. That involves establishing regular self-care endeavors like hiking and other exercise routines, connecting with family and friends, or some other activities we enjoy. We will have a difficult time aiding others or our country if we do not take positive actions that lift our spirits and provide a feeling that our lives are not in constant jeopardy.

Second, we must recognize that we are not alone. Millions of our fellow Americans feel despair, hopelessness and/or fear regarding what Trump and his MAGA friends intend to do. To help alleviate these feelings, I joined an affinity group. Essentially, it’s a fairly small number of people with a common interest or purpose who work together to help each other as well as others at-risk and related efforts. I suggest you join one, too. If you can’t find one, create one with your friends and colleagues. We need to stick together.

Third, we must understand that collective action counters the feelings of isolation and is generally more effective than acting alone. The more people get involved, the greater the impact. Together, we can make a difference.

Fourth, we must be in this for the long haul. Overcoming Trump and his billionaire buddies will not happen overnight. We must build a viable democracy movement and be prepared for an extended struggle against the forces of autocracy.

Fifth, we must develop a compelling vision of a revived American democracy that will rally the vast majority of our fellow citizens to come together and accomplish it. This vision would include good-paying jobs, quality healthcare/medicare for all, affordable housing, a sustainable environment, and immigration reform, and more.

Finally, we each have to decide. Are we going to sit by and allow this hostile takeover of our country to destroy our democracy? Or, are we going to stand up and fight for what we believe is right? Many of us have enough resources that we would not suffer much, at least for a while, under the Trump region. Others will feel a greater impact sooner. But, eventually, we will all feel the heavy burden of a right-wing autocracy.

Do we have the strength and courage to do what we know is the right course to take? I sure hope so.

(Note: I will only be publishing my blog occasionally for the next several months so that I will have more time to complete my memoir, From Camden to Kathmandu.)

Bruce Berlin, J.D.

A retired, public sector ethics attorney, Berlin is a former U.S. Institute of Peace Fellow and the founder and former executive director of The Trinity Forum for International Security and Conflict Resolution. He is also the author of Breaking Big Money’s Grip on America.  (See breakingbigmoneysgrip.com.). Contact him at breakingbigmoneysgrip@gmail.com.

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