Today is our election day. A day that has been heralded as the touchstone of our democratic system, our national pride and a reminder of our freedom of choice for over 200 years.

This year, Americans have been looking forward to this day for months, but not for the same reasons. We have spent day after day complaining, questioning and arguing with and about our presidential candidates. We are tired.

In a normal election, we are not expected to speak about sexual assault, treason, Russian hacks or forcing Mexico to build a wall.

In a normal election, despite everything that has been said and done, we would come together as Americans, peacefully, and recognize our new president. But this is not a normal election.

No matter who our new president is, we are still Americans, we will still see each other in class and talk to each other over dinner.

It is important that we remember this, that we are neither the “conservative monster” nor the “liberal monster.” It is difficult to consider this thought, we have felt so much hatred in this election, but yes, we will still be Americans.

This election, though divisive, will not define us. What does define us, however, is our ability to unclench our fists, step away from Facebook and recognize what makes us all American. There is nothing more American than to overcome.

To overcome religious persecution, wherein we will create a more perfect union.

To overcome a civil war, so that all people are to be free, no matter the color of their skin.

To overcome women’s disfranchisement, wherein the inherent need for their suffrage is realized and upheld.

To overcome marriage inequality, wherein the dignity of love was made absolute.

The Criterion is confident that the American people will overcome this election. For these struggles we face today can only make us stronger tomorrow.

These struggles are not what define us, it is what comes from them that makes us American. This election will surely take us greater places than we thought possible.

Former President Thomas Jefferson said something in his inaugural address that resonates today just as well as it did over 215 years ago:

“Let us, then, fellow citizens, unite with one heart and one mind. Let us restore to social intercourse that harmony and affection without which liberty and even life itself are but dreary things.”

Happy Election Day from the Criterion, and God Bless America.