I have to thank Donald Trump. I really do, but not for the things that he has done as president, or actually, for nothing he has intentionally done at all.

I started taking an interest in politics when President Obama took office, and to this day I admire the Obama family for the way they cared for our country for eight years. A lot happened in those eight years, but the Obama’s always made me feel like things would turn up. It was not until Donald Trump announced his candidacy for President of the United States that I started voicing my political opinions.

When he announced he would be running for office, I didn’t believe it was real. I was certain he would come out a few months in and admit it was all one big joke. Well, I wanted to be in on the joke, so I kept up, or did my best to.

As time passed, I was both shocked and appalled by the things I heard and saw. I was bothered by his behavior and his ability to brush it off as if he was God on Earth. The Obama’s were never like that. I always thought they were “one of us.” Trump, however, made me feel small and powerless, especially as a woman.

I started watching the debates, writing about the campaign and voicing my disappointment with him, his campaign and almost everything he stood for. It isn’t until now, as I watch protests against the travel “ban” and women fighting for their rights, that I realize that he gave me a voice, in the worst way possible, but a voice still. I could not sit by as he did and said things I could never in my life agree with.  

Thanks to Trump, I am more politically aware. I debate with others about the importance of being aware, and I have found it in myself to fight for not only my rights, but for others as well. Having a voice and fighting for what you feel is right is so important. So, I want to thank Mr. Trump for making me find my voice, for making me find the strength to fight for others and stand up against the things that are wrong.

Of course, I would much rather him behave and act in a different way, but I guess all situations have positives. Thanks to him and all of his vile, unjust comments and actions, I have found it in myself to say no to the things that I do not agree with, and to stand up to the things that hurt, terrify or confine others.

Thanks to President Trump, I feel I am doing others a disservice by not standing up. So, to Mr. Trump, thank you for that. Thank you for, in some sick way, giving me a voice for others.

To all the women, immigrants and other groups out there that feel threatened, scared or less than you should, do not let one man define who you are and determine what is right for you. Be brave. Stand up for each other and be kind.

Kindness, especially in times of unrest and uncertainty, goes a long way. For the next four years, I will be watching and refusing to stay silent. I hope things turn around, but if they don’t, I am here for you. I believe you are worthy and important. Don’t let one man take away your voice. Use these issues and injustices to find one.