I was talking with my therapist about this column and what it means to live ethically, and her perspective completely changed how I thought about it. Instead of talking about being environmentally friendly or supporting the right businesses, she interpreted ethical living as how we interact with one another. So, now I am not just thinking about reducing my carbon footprint but also about the way my actions have consequences and what moral obligations I have living in society today. 

I can’t stop thinking about the upcoming election. It’s daunting voting for the first time living in such a polarized political state. It feels as though just one vote doesn’t matter, especially when you can predict the result of each state. As a resident of Massachusetts, I don’t believe my vote will change the outcome of the state’s decision. However, having that choice, being present and just participating in the system changes how you view politics. Taking the time out of your day to put your opinions onto a ballot to choose which candidate you think is the best fit is already a step ahead of thousands of others and shows that you have a voice: Use it. And even though it’s hard to know what is right and wrong, or who is better, just try. Voting uneducated is better than not voting at all. 

With that being said, it is crucial to be educated on politics when you are voting. Today’s social media climate provides a platform to say anything. Knowing what is true or false takes time and skill, and media literacy doesn’t come easily. In an evolving culture where morality and policy-making are being questioned, you must know what you are voting for. But you must know what you believe before you can even do that. 

As individuals, we all fall on a spectrum of opinions: what is morally right, what makes sense, why things are the way they are, et cetera. Knowing what you think is best is the first step in being part of a functioning society. The best way to do this is to educate yourself. 

Start by reading articles from varying sources and hearing what others have to say. While you may feel the need to defend your beliefs, keep an open mind. Watch the news and listen to the radio to stay informed. Don’t make snap judgments because a story always has more sides. Too many people don’t really know what is happening, so knowing the truth gives you a leg up. Some sources I turned to are the New York Times, The Guardian, CNN and social media accounts like Impact and Feminist. Other than just reading, diversify your sources and read from all perspectives to fully understand what is happening. 

So pursue knowledge, seek out the truth and use your voice–even though it is scary. Try to be the best version of yourself and put that energy back out into the world. Trust your instincts and keep fighting for what you believe in.