PEBBLE
We are here to help each other get through this thing, whatever it is.
~Mark Vonnegut, as shared by his father Kurt Vonnegut in speeches and writing; mentioned by Gary Goldman during the documentary Group Therapy
BOULDER
Pete, while chatting with his friend and fellow stand-up comedian Mike Birbiglia on Mike’s podcast, tells a story about going to the theater with his wife on a day there had been a minor earthquake. During the performance they felt a few aftershocks that rattled the lights (as well as the nerves of those who felt them). Pete compared the situation to life in general: “We’re all putting on a play during an earthquake. The best thing we can do is hold hands and say, ‘I felt that shock, too.’”
~Pete Holmes, shared by Julie in Cincinnati, OH
PONDER
It feels like the last few years have been one long series of earthquakes—big shakes, lingering aftershocks, and an undercurrent of dread about how bad things might get before they get better.
Alongside the geopolitical turmoil, there are plenty of local quakes rattling our lives: storms and crime, health struggles, losses of loved ones, relationship turbulence, workplace upheavals.
When life shakes us up, I think of the advice Mr. Rogers said his mama gave him: look for the helpers. Sometimes they’re right nearby, waiting for you to ask. Other times you have to seek them out.
And when it’s your turn to be the helper, remember: advice isn’t always what’s needed. More often, the gift is showing up, holding space, and reminding someone they aren’t alone.
So whether you’re reaching for help or offering it, I invite you to find one person today you can literally—or metaphorically—hold hands with.
Peace,
Paul