Bridge over somewhat troubled water

A quiet spot on the way home
London, ON
September 2020
This photo originally shared on Instagram

Like many of you last night, I watched the presidential debate. And I was appalled.

I've worked in and around media long enough to know that politics is a tough, dirty game. But I never thought I'd see a sitting president refuse to denounce white supremacy, then literally call out to a specific group to "stand back and stand by."

I was pretty sure my brain would explode at that point, but I had another thought, as well. Hear me out.

This world, our world, is composed of elements far more diverse than a grifting, hate-filled narcissist who can't string a coherent sentence together. Someday, hopefully soon, American voters will finally get a clue and ask for leaders who focus on them instead of lining their own pockets.

But whatever happens November 3rd, we all have lives, at home and closer to home, that continue to unfold as they must despite what happens on an electoral stage or at the ballot box.

To wit, this bridge over the river beside the bike path that I often take on the way home from the office. I like to stop here on occasion, to reflect on the day that was and appreciate that I live in a city that routinely offers up places and moments like this. I'll stand in the middle of the span, almost feeling the energy of the water below and the light from above.

The pandemic has obviously put a stop to the daily bike commute, but I still like to return here now and again.

Because it helps me turn off the outside world and just be alone with my thoughts for a few minutes. Because we all have places that resonate with us. Because we all deserve moments like this.

Because not even a shameful display of anti-humanity can erase the blessings we all have right in front of us.

I hope you have similar places near you, and I hope you make the time to go to them. You deserve it. We all do.

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