Yeah. I hope it does.

I didn’t know how else to start this post. I’ve written and re-written this a few times and ended up scrapping every draft because I didn’t think that it was productive to have my first post-election post to be angry, sad, or completely ignorant to the current events. At the same time, I don’t want to turn this blog into a political bitch fest; we are already getting well enough of that on every social media platform, news app, text message, email, phone call, etc etc.

So I’ll just say this one thing and then get back to all the book shit. Now, more than ever, it is imperative that we seek fellowship in our communities and found families. Whether it’s in person or online, the support and resources that we can offer (and receive!) amongst trustworthy, loving, like-minded folk is what’s going to win the day. Regardless of what’s happens in the future, having people you can turn to, to lift you up will fill you with the light you need to continue on. Remember, we’ve all pinky sworn together to stick around for a while. No bowing out now.

In the words of one of the best people to ever exist, Mr. Rogers, “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping”. There are so many ways to help that align with your energy level, abilities, and willingness. Sometimes that looks like texting a friend you haven’t spoken to in two years to say happy birthday. Sometimes that looks like researching and sharing links to certain supplies that might become unavailable soon. Sometimes it looks like setting up your finished basement, in the event that an out of town guest needs to hunker down in a blue state for a little while. And sometimes it looks like sitting in silence and staring into the middle distance for a while.

And finally, make sure to listen. Listen to the things that people aren’t saying, but might want to say. Miss a few minutes of your next meeting if your coworker needs to talk about their fears. It’s in the listening that we learn. We support those around us. We allow them a moment of vulnerability and create a safe space to do so.

Okay, well, that’s all I wanted to say. I wish the best for all of you.