Wow. You live in an alternate universe from me and it makes me very sad. I had a father who made me believe I was smart as anyone and could be whatever I wanted to be; he had his flaws like anyone, but sexism wasn’t one of them. My husband of 20-some years has always said that women are smarter than men, he doesn’t care that I usually earn more than him, and does almost all of our house cleaning. To imagine either of these men talking — or acting! — the way that Trump does is almost impossible. Likewise, we’ve surrounded ourselves with similar people of character and when I sometimes overhear the guys in our version of a man cave, nothing even remotely similar to Trump’s language has ever come out.

Obviously that talk, those actions, are out there. I’ve observed them during college and occasionally in the work place or other mixed company. But to expect them as the norm? No way. And from a possible commander in chief? Beyond revolting.

I hope the men around you rise to the occasion, and that we end up with leaders who can set an example for all Americans. Because I shudder to think what’s ahead if we don’t, and I wish the best for you.