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Ha! If I may, I will invite you to read this piece I posted about a year ago:

https://graciewilde.substack.com/p/mostly-love-now

And, yes, The Cows at Night = 👍👍👍

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Funny! Great minds think alike, right? I wrote a post about his speech and this poem about a year ago too, June 10 https://deborahbrasket.substack.com/p/on-regret-and-kindness

No wonder the speech went viral, it struck something deeply recognized and needed in our hearts. Thanks for sharing that, Gracie.

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I'm scared as we move closer to the next election. I wish everyone would see the value in kindness.

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Yes, I'm scared too. It seems surreal the way people are backing someone who is so obviously horrible in so many ways. After the 2016 election, I felt I woke up in an alternate universe, and it appears we are still living there. I don't want my generation to be the one who loses the war for decency and democracy in the sees United States.

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I was stunned at that election result in 2016. I didn't believe it could happen but I do now. I have a tough time reading anything related to politics now b/c I feel so helpless. Of course, I will vote and I will do what I can to support compassionate leaders but so much is so big and overwhelming. The Project 2025 thing is mind boggling in its destructive capabilities.

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Acknowledging the significance of love, compassion, empathy, cherished memories, and the little joys in life, like the rhythmic tapping of a woodpecker or the blossoming flowers that adorn the resting place of a beloved pet, and a lifetime of intimacy, all hold far greater value than any material or financial inheritance. But also recognizing that love can triumph over stubborn pride, anger, or egos that impede our growth and kindness.

Wise words, indeed. Thank you for sharing.

Regarding Graduation speeches, I absolutely love Neil Gaiman's 2012 speech at the University of the Arts in London, where he advises the graduating class to "Make Good Art."

https://www.uarts.edu/makegoodart

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You are so right, Michael. Those are the things that speak so deeply to me too. I haven't heard Gaiman's speech yet but I'm going to read it now. Interesting how the speeches meant for people starting out on their own in life can also touch those of us who have lived a good, long while and may even be winding down, as they say, although I like to think I'm more "reeling away" than winding down these days.

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