OPEN LETTER | POLITICS

Dear Mr. President

An open letter to Donald J. Trump on his health

Mr. President, I am probably one of the last people in the world you would listen to about your health. I am female, bisexual, and I lean toward socialism. And although I lack appeal to you, I have empathy in abundance toward you.

President Trump, you are unwell. No, I am not in the medical or psychological fields. I am a concerned citizen. I’ve watched your slow decline since 2015 and I recognize the signs. My mother exhibited them too after a few mini strokes. My mom’s right side was affected also. I recognize it in your gait — the way you sometimes drag your right foot. I recognize it in your balance issues — how you almost fell in New Hampshire Friday, how you have to hold rails as you come down stairs and ramps. I recognize it in your need to use your left hand to help your right hand lift a glass to your lips. And I recognize it in your slurred speech and how quickly you become distracted.

Mr. President, I know you will never accept the fact that you are unwell. The narcissism that you display will not allow that. And I also know that no one in your circle of advisors, family or friends will tell you that you are unwell because they fear the backlash they will get from you if they do. However, they are doing you a great disservice.

I may not be one of your followers and my own brand of politics is far left of your far right, but I care. And unlike others who wish you ill-will because they do not like what you’ve done to this country, I refuse to wish you anything but good health. I pray for you, Mr. President. And I will continue to pray for you. But please, sir, if someone comes to you and tells you your health has decline to the point of physical danger to yourself, please listen to them. Your near-fall Friday scared me enough. I just hope there are some people with your true best interest at heart to help you, regardless of your tantrums.

May the Divine bless you, Mr. President.

©2020 Lori Carlson. All Rights Reserved.

Lori Carlson writes poetry, fiction, articles, creative non-fiction and personal essays. Most of her topics are centered around Relationships, Spirituality, Life Lessons, Mental Health, and the LGBTQ+ community. In addition to writing for Illumination, Lori also writes for twelve other publications here on Medium. Check out her personal Medium blog — Ravyne’s Nest.