i have never felt so sad for something from which i was so separated.

most of what i am feeling shall stay my own. i am gaining neither perspective nor solace by talking with others about what has happened. i am surprised by my friends' reactions; dismayed by some, outright hurt by others. but i am trying to understand that some people do not know how to express these emotions, some do not even understand them, and what is said is not always what is truly felt.

thankfully, everyone i know is safe. i hope that so are your loved ones. please practice peace, patience and kindness where you can. this moment requires us all to be exceptional.