'So, where is hope?"

Letter to America by Ece Temelkuran

- Ece Temelkuran

Dear American friend, By the time my letter reaches you, you'll have heard all the clever ways of saying, "We are screwed!" Thousands of soundbites will have told you, "Get up and fight." Others will have shared tips on mourning and healing. The strange thing is that even though you'll be in the same dark circus of emotions, everything you hear from your political side will add to your anger.

That is what defeat the second time around does: the shame of losing morphs into self-hatred. You begin to be enraged by your ilk more than by the opponent. That is why I am writing directly to you. Because in the coming months, your emotional state will have an impact on domestic and global politics.

Sure, you remember. In 2016, when you were in a similar state of rage and depression, the collective consolation was political humor and the idea that Trump would quickly crash and burn. This time around, you'll again see people saying, "No, he wouldn't do that."

Because when people feel helpless, they soothe themselves with wishful thinking. This was what we witnessed in my home country of Turkey, as well as in Italy, India, and all the other countries that have travelled down the same road.

Yet, the new chapter will come with an additional surprise: you will experience the magnetic magic of power. Some, whom you assume to be your people, will decide to normalize Trump and find ways to make themselves at home with the insanity. Hopefully, it won't happen, but just in case, prepare yourself for the most painful bit. The absolute desperation when you witness some friends, first hesitantly murmuring, then confidently saying, "It is not as bad as we imagined." You will watch in horror as they fall in line without being forced.