There was a moment today when upon seeing how there were very small groups who went out to support the new elect president, Ara said, "It's encouraging."

For a moment, I had a subtle panic on how to respond. What do I say? I said, "Maybe they're all online, 'no?" She answered, "Maybe."

I wondered if I may have dampened her mood. Could I have something better? But also, I am teaching myself not to hold on to that thought or wonder too tightly that I morph it into an unrecognizable worry or doubt. Just observe. Just observe.

I thought for a second, Aah, Ara is telling me how she feels so subtly. When she said it's encouraging, she meant she has felt discouraged these past days - or most likely, since the elections even.

I felt grateful.

I felt grateful and honored to be disclosed and trusted with such sentiments. Now, I have a better idea of partly how she's been feeling and perhaps, how I can show up as a more loving, kinder friend and comrade.

Mantra / Affirmation: I don't always have to react immediately. I can take a breath and choose how I respond.