Post the 2024 Election, Just Breathe

Deep breath. This will be short.

Somehow this week, my planned newsletter on gut health just didn’t seem to fit.

Because I know there are a lot of feelings circulating out there right now, in the days after a consequential election.

Many are joyful. Many are fearful. Many are hopeful. Many are unsettled.

The emotions couldn't be farther apart.  Just like our politics seem to be right now.

This past Sunday, I had the privilege of being at the New York Marathon, on a beautiful day, watching my husband and daughter run together for 26.2 miles.

The city was electric. The energy unified the thousands of courageous runners, showcasing both their grit and perseverance, but also, their pure joy in being able to participate in this iconic event.

While I was in awe of these runners, I was also moved by the spectators—two million strong. Their endless cheering, their outpouring of high fives to strangers, and the uplifting support they offered felt incredibly transformative. 

It reminded me of what it means to be together, to lift each other up, to celebrate the journey, and to be part of something greater than ourselves.

Together we run. Together we cheer. 

Together… Together… Together.

Somehow, we need to get back to this sense of together.

That's my hope for our America. For whatever lies ahead, there will be change. And change, as we know, can be both challenging and transformative.

As we navigate these times, let’s remind ourselves of the values that are most important to us. Write them down. Consider how we can live them out each day, even more brightly, even more fully.

In moments of division, let’s draw strength from our communities. Lean on each other. Lift each other up. Try to understand each other, and seek out different points of view.  Find peace in mindful moments to stay centered and grounded, to approach challenges with clarity and compassion.

And maybe, take a moment to think about one thing you can do today to make the world a little better tomorrow. It doesn’t have to be big—sometimes the smallest gestures can have the most profound impact.

If we can each do a little, together, we can create something truly beautiful.

Wishing you peace and resilience, always.