First we rest, then we fight

It's been a long two and a half weeks since the election. I've been processing a lot of emotions in response to the outcome that we worked so hard to avoid. And I'm certain that the processing and the grieving are far from done. This may quite possibly be true for you, too. At the same time, I've worked to find moments of light amidst the worry and anxiety, and truthfully, I hadn't done that for some time. I'd been so focused on the election and the demands of my daily life, that I'd forgotten to step back and appreciate all the goodness that exists in my world despite the future occupant of the White House and the Speaker of the House. I've promised myself that moving forward, I will work harder to pull back - at times - and savor the good in my life regardless.

To that end, I'm sharing a photo of me and Ryan at last night's thank you dinner hosted by the President and Dr Biden at the White House. I have been remarkably lucky to work with a group of people who care so much and so deeply about our country. That love of country does not and will not end on January 20th. For my part, I have committed to taking a step back to consider what went wrong, to learn from those around me, to think strategically about what lies ahead, and to recommit myself to the ideals and values we hold dear. I am not foolish enough to think this will be easy. But it is the work.

I am grateful for you and for your commitment to our country, our values, and our democracy. I hope that like me, you will take some time over the coming week to surround yourself with the love of friends and family. I hope you'll eat too much food and maybe drink an extra glass of something tasty. I'll be spending a lot of time considering next steps and preparing myself for the weeks and months ahead. We have so much worth fighting for.

But first, we rest. And then, we fight.

In solidarity, always,

Shannon