The Antidote to a Stressful Election Week

Tomorrow is Election Day, and our country is feeling the weight of this moment. Both sides are worried, feeling that so much is at stake. For many, there’s an underlying fear that we’re on the brink of something we may not recover from.

But last night, I experienced something that reminded me of the true remedy for these times. I was at a dinner celebrating a dear friend’s incredible recovery after a double lung transplant—a celebration of love, resilience, and, most of all, a second chance at life. This gathering wasn’t just about survival; it was about thriving in the face of life’s hardest moments. It made me reflect on our country, especially now, and I realized I don’t want us to just “get through” this election. I want us to find a way to thrive together, beyond our fears and differences.

One dinner guest asked, “How do we get through this week?” My answer was simple, but deeply heartfelt--

"Kindness."

Kindness may not be seen as a survival skill, but I believe it’s our best path forward, not just to survive but to truly thrive together. That’s why, last month, I began a 21-Day Compassion Ninja Challenge. Each day, people across the country have been performing small, compassionate actions. And you know what? These acts of kindness have given me so much hope. They remind me that when we choose compassion and understanding—toward ourselves, our families, our communities—we create a ripple effect of peace and connection.

So here’s my invitation to you: let’s carry this mindset into the week ahead. Be kind, be curious, be compassionate. Smile at a stranger, wave to a neighbor, leave a heartfelt review for a local business, or offer a genuine compliment to someone in passing. These gestures may seem small, but they are transformative. They are how we open our hearts and start bridging divides.

In this crucial week, let’s remember that kindness is more than just “nice.” It’s how we survive, heal, and, ultimately, thrive as a community. Together, we can hold on to hope, and maybe even create a world that’s a little kinder for all of us.