Thank You

What a Community

Dear Steady Community,

Wow. 

Yesterday, when we asked how you're all doing, I didn’t know what to expect. But having been continually impressed by the thoughtfulness of the comments we receive from you, I hoped that this piece would inspire some heartfelt dialogue. To say that what you shared far surpassed that goal is an understatement. 

I am moved by the outpouring of stories and thoughts. I can’t respond to all of you individually, but please know that I see you and hear you. You have shared your hopes and your despair, your joy and your pain, your yearnings and your fears. You have done so with open hearts and minds. The eloquence and care you give to your words is impressive. So too is the trust you place in other members of this community to respond with empathy and care. 

So much is rightly made of the limitations of our increasingly digital world. And these drawbacks exist and are serious. Much of what occurs online is vitriolic and debased. It is about tearing down rather than building up. 

Somehow, thanks to all of you, Steady seems to be largely a protected harbor from a lot of this ugliness. The breadth and depth of your backgrounds represent a broad spectrum of the human experience. That you can come together in a spirit of cooperation and concern offers a compelling rebuttal to the cynics who preach the low road of human interaction. 

I encourage you to read the comments on yesterday's post if you haven’t, or return to them if you already have. You can follow this link to do so. Please add your own thoughts if you are comfortable sharing. If someone else’s comments move you, please also consider responding and starting a new line of dialogue. 

Some of you kindly asked how I am doing. Like most, I have my ups and downs, my hopes and fears. But I am better knowing that you are here on this journey with me. Thank you once again for all your support, for me, for us, and for each other. 

Best wishes,

Dan