The election is done, and it is time for deep reflection on how we got the results we got.

Was it the barrage of “misinformation” we were fed on social media? Was it because it was so difficult to find the truth (too much work, social media unchecked)? Was it overkill on the media’s part?

Every move, every word, every hiccup reported, reported again, analyzed over and over by myriad talking heads? Was it an indication of a societal disdain for education? Have we lost sight of civility, compassion and acceptance? Was it that we were actually betting on the election results? Have we lowered our standards too far?

Whatever it is, I want to believe that it’s the beginning of a correction. A time to look in the mirror as a collective and decide whether we need to rethink the direction society has taken.

I want to believe that we will come to our senses somehow and embrace the great experiment that the United States is, has been and should continue to be.

Jean Domaingue, Lewiston