feeling minnesota

Currently listening to: Guess – Charli xcx feat. Billie Eilish

This will be the first and only time I write about anything remote about politics.  

When I heard that Biden stepped down, I’m NGL, I let out a sigh of relief.  It was like watching two geriatrics battling it out in the dementia ward.  

This upcoming election is going to be wild.  All the frenetic energy is somewhat overwhelming but also electrifying.  It’s as though society is collectively holding its breath, teetering on the edge of momentous change. 

Growing up, my parents were staunch Republicans, deeply embedded in their conservative values.  I would even dare say they were hyper-religious.  I didn’t care for any of it…Democrats or Republicans.  It’s because I felt that neither party truly represented me or my beliefs.  Their policies and rhetoric seemed to have missed the mark, leaving a gap between their vision and what I inherently felt was right. 

When Kamala Harris VP announced Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate, my mouth dropped to the floor.  A part of me was ecstatic and quite proud of this California and Minnesota combo.  The Harris and Walz ticket was substantial in my book.  I could completely relate to this duo because I was born in California, grew up in Minnesota, and returned back to the Golden State.  

As a Gemini, I find this pair to complement one another. It’s giving.

Kamala is brat.  If you don’t know what means…Google it.  IDK where she’s been before but the new energy that Harris has now is dynamic and vibrant presence, she embodies the spirted ethos of California.  She represents forward-thinking and inclusivity. 

Walz presents a balanced, steady Midwestern demeanor.  He evokes a different kind of influence with his experience and pragmatic approach, which I believe will appeal to a broad spectrum of voters who are looking for stability and grounded leadership.  He’s bringing back the word, “weird”, and I’m here for it.

Kamala Harris is 59 years old and TBH she doesn’t look her age.  Tim Walz is 60 years old.  He looks like he’s been through it but this could be to his benefit.

I love California but I still consider Minnesota “home”.  Growing up in Minnesota presented a unique array of challenges and opportunities that deeply influenced my character and values.  And if you were to hear me speak in English, you’d be able to detect my Minnesotan accent straight away.  Think Fargo-ish but slightly toned down.  Oh yah, shore, you betcha.

Anyway, I digress.  As a double minority in a predominantly homogeneous community, I was frequently bullied and tormented by my neighbors and classmates.  They fucking frightened me every damn day. However, these adversities cultivated a resilience that has been invaluable throughout my life. Minnesota’s education system provided a solid foundation, encouraged a strong work ethic (also being Korean helped), and a sense of determination.  These qualities propelled me forward, allowing me to navigate and overcome subsequent challenges with grit and perseverance.

Contrastingly, my time in California brought a different perspective to my life.  The environment was one of boundless freedom and a more diverse and accepting social landscape.  This allowed me to explore my individuality more openly and embrace a more creative (freak-a-leek) approach to life.  

I know my Republican friends are disappointed in me or may even hate my little guts right now.  But after time passes, I’m sure we can let bygones be bygones.