Along with the much needed classes on civics, dealing with difficult emotions, how to work through a problem with someone, and other things that really ought to be taught in junior high, is an imagined course on how to interact with those who are experiencing a hard time. People don’t know what to say so they say stupid shit.

There’s this thing called “holding space” which is one of the core elements of a good life coach, in which you let someone talk, while giving them your full attention. You don’t try to fix them, you don’t try to judge them, or take over the situation in any way. You just show up present, caring, supporting, and also trusting that they can work this through — but not from that dismissive “it’ll all work out” place. It is unbelievably powerful.

The world is always going to hell in a hand-basket, but maybe this time it really isn’t going to all be OK. Being good to each other and actually supporting each other in the meantime is probably a really good idea.