I spoke to my friend on an early morning walk surrounded by the charm of a Virginia town named Occoquan. She strolled down a trail alongside a sparkling canal in Edinburgh amidst a bright midday light. An ocean apart, we embraced the gifted moment, held unto it, side by side.

While talking, our cameras were on. This allowed us to spotlight and share our respective spots. As I crossed by an elegant shop window, I told her a story about something I had recently observed at a Washington, DC airport.

Her typically wise and thoughtful response helped me to imagine you as the reader there with us contributing and listening. I often think about you, reader.

And so, it is a pleasure to warmly welcome you into the conversation - thanks for being present in it wherever you stand or whatever the time period.

At the airport I witnessed a couple embracing. Of course, that is by no means an unusual occurrence. What struck me with this particular situation was how long........

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