We made it through day one.
For anyone who’s followed me even briefly, it’s no secret that I am not a fan of Trump. His first term was a particularly challenging time for me. I struggled to understand how anyone could support him, especially those who identified as “Christian.” I couldn’t wrap my head around the excuses made for his actions or the unwavering loyalty of many, including most of my immediate family.
During those four years, I fell into an exhausting cycle. Every morning, I’d wake up and immediately check Twitter to see what unhinged thing he had said, done, or posted overnight. I tracked his every move, staying hyper-informed in an attempt to prepare for the worst.
This constant vigilance wasn’t new to me—it’s a habit rooted in my upbringing. Growing up in a volatile environment taught me to think 12 steps ahead, overanalyzing and preparing for worst-case scenarios as a way to protect myself. But Trump’s presidency exacerbated those tendencies, and it took a toll on me.
When he lost the election four years ago, I felt an immense sense of relief. Biden wasn’t my first choice, but his presidency offered something I desperately needed: a reprieve. For the first time in years, I could breathe, even if just a little.
But here we are again. Trump is back. And this time, he’s accompanied by Zuckerburg, Musk, and a broader wave of propaganda and harmful agendas. I’ve decided to approach the next four years differently for the sake of my peace.
One small change I’m making is removing all Meta products from my phone. While I’m keeping my accounts, I’ll only be accessing Facebook, Instagram, and Threads from my desktop. Meta no longer has permission to track me through my phone. Moving forward, most of my updates and content will be shared here on my website—a space I control, free from algorithms and corporate agendas.
Now, some might say, “Adam, what does this have to do with photography?” And they’d be right—it doesn’t. But photography is just one part of who I am. Like everyone, I have layers. I refuse to box myself into one topic or persona. My blog is my space to share whatever’s on my mind, no matter how chaotic. If writers like John Scalzi can build a platform by being their authentic selves, why can’t I?
So, here’s my commitment: I’m going to handle these next four years differently. Trump stole my peace once; I won’t let him do it again. I’ll protect my mental health, focus on what matters, and support my chosen family and friends along the way.
Stay vigilant. Look out for each other. Protect your peace.
Good luck to us all.
