The recent presidential election and ensuing actions by President Donald Trump and his team have elicited a wide range of reactions among the American populace, reflecting deep political and social divisions that have been intensifying. While some individuals and groups have embraced the president’s leadership and policy initiatives, others have found the adjustment challenging if not frightening.

Recent polling indicates that our nation is divided in its perception of Trump’s return to office.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll from Jan. 21 found 47% of adult Americans approved of Trump’s performance, while 41% disapproved. Notably, his pardons of individuals convicted in connection with the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack were unpopular among respondents.

By Jan. 28, approval ratings had dipped slightly to 45%, with disapproval rising to 46%. These figures underscore the polarized views within our country.

These developments highlight the ongoing challenges in achieving national unity and addressing the diverse concerns of the American populace. Many people within my sphere of influence have spoken with me of heightened stress, anxiety and fear for the future. I must admit that I can relate with much of what they have shared with me.

There are several strategies I have found helpful in such times as this. First, it is important to focus on what can be controlled. This involves limiting our exposure to negativity and misinformation. It also helps to take small, meaningful actions in our personal and community life. My wife, Wendy, and I have found it important to work with our church’s outreach team in putting together food bags for those in our city who are food insecure. This includes weekly visits to one of our elementary schools where we deliver close to two hundred food bags each Friday so that children will have something to eat over the weekend.

Second, by limiting media consumption and engaging in self-care practices we can help alleviate some of the effects that stress and anxiety can cause. I’ve decided that it is necessary to allocate specific times for news updates and avoid constant monitoring of the media and social platforms. I also incorporate activities such as sports (racquetball is one of my favorites), music and woodworking. These outlets help me maintain balance and a sense of calm.

Finally, and this goes along with self-care, we can help protect ourselves from worry and fear by practicing techniques such as meditation, deep-breathing exercises, and/or prayer. A prayer Wendy and I now focus on each day comes from the Lutheran Book of Worship and is also printed in the Chalice Hymnal of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Titled “A Prayer for the Nation,” here are the words of that prayer:

“Almighty God, You have given us this good land as our heritage. Make us always remember your generosity and constantly do your will.

Bless our land with honest industry, truthful education, and an honorable way of life.

Save us from violence, discord and confusion, from pride and arrogance and from every evil course of action.

Make us who came from many nations with many different languages, a united people.

Defend our liberties and give those whom we have entrusted with the authority of government the spirit of wisdom, that there might be justice and peace in our land.

When times are prosperous, let our hearts be thankful; and, in troubled times, do not let our trust in you fail. Amen.”