This time of year, late August, I yearn for slower more inward days. But, at the same time, I reflect on what is summer. Sun dazed days and gathered community basking in the present. Sweaty days dipped in ice water, drying off in the sun, and jumping in again. A pack of friends hanging on to one small floaty laughing and joking about the vastness of Lake Michigan. “Wow, there’s so much water in this lake,” someone says in amazement while we all respond “no ****.” Constant awe of daily joy and life’s bounty. Yet, the violence and struggle of other people across the world is still alive on my mind. The daunting journey of an election ahead that feels so fragile and the possibility turning the needle one side or the other could lead to diabolical pain for so many people and the planet feels heavy. What a line we walk in this life between grief and joy, love and loss, suffering and fortune. And I continue to breathe it all in.