The influence of compassion

The Ottauquechee River in West Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

2021 is a different year, with a different trajectory. What we know now is a world away from what we knew last year, and we’ve drawn closer to the end of the pandemic, though health experts still urge caution. 

What hasn’t changed is the need for a crucial resource we can always offer each other: compassion. Last year expressions of compassion bloomed well ahead of the springtime flowers, showing love for our neighbors, volunteering, and turning a listening ear to those who needed one. There was a significant feeling of everyone sharing the struggle, confronting the mounting challenges together. People worked together outside of the political trappings of the day, confronting a problem with others in mind.

Clearly, the closer we drew to November, the more challenging it became to separate the political noise and influence of the day from the rest of our lives. All the while, however, compassion continued to bloom, ranging from a group of workers who banded together to fix a woman’s dilapidated home in the fall, to people welcoming neighbors to their homes amid the brutal winter storms in Texas recently. The winds of controversy may have changed the national media spotlight, but they didn’t change our collective heart as a people, which still expresses compassion for others. 

Today, we still reside in a nation in great need of compassion, and this virtue will continue to be key to healing in many situations. Foremost in thought today are the aftermath of the shootings in Atlanta and Colorado, and the hate and violence experienced by Asian Americans in the U.S. In the Atlanta killings, six out of the eight victims were women of Asian descent. Investigations continue into the motives behind both shootings. An investigation is also underway of a man who carried five guns and body armor into an Atlanta store Wednesday, according to CNN. 

Hate has taken a variety of forms in recent months, whether violent, verbal or more subtle. We of course condemn it, in all its forms, and we support the victims’ families and communities within the boundless embrace of love. We hope that practical steps can be taken to counteract the pattern of hate. Legislation is one answer taking shape, but another is to cultivate compassion in our own thinking. It is the ultimate antidote to hate, as compassion is based in love and always focused on the needs of others. When we express compassion, it does not stay within the bounds of our own experience. Rather, it spreads its positive influence and blesses others, being a counteractive element to the currents of hate. Let’s allow compassion to take root in our lives and grow, so that it can be shared with others, enrich their lives and strengthen the fabric of our communities and society. Working together, we can build a broader response to hate and violence, and underpin potential solutions with the calm, healing strength compassion inspires.

— Gareth Henderson

Awakening to spring

It’s mud season, as evidenced on Hartland Hill Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The brightness of an earth renewed illuminated the landscape to mark the first day of spring 2021 on Saturday. As the ground softens and new life takes root, the world is awakening and stretching its dormant roots.

The abundant plant life anticipates the changes, seeking the light of spring. People also embrace that light, welcoming the promise of springtime with its renewal, hope and vibrancy. The air on Saturday was full of that promise, and during our first family bike ride of the year, we could just feel that peace, the calming approach of that familiar season. Riding down the road, the sun fell on newly exposed muddy ground, brooks near the road bubbled, and birds greeted the open air with song. I loved the sense of family we experienced as we continued our ride. Just as the trees are rooted, the togetherness we felt also had a firm foundation we took with us as we enjoyed the afternoon.

In Woodstock Village, people walked the streets, some also biked, and customers filled the socially-distanced patio seating at Mon Vert Cafe, joyfully taking in the first day of spring. Nearby at Woodstock Sports, the crowds were coming through as well. The sunnier days have certainly brought more customers, especially to the bike shop, Woodstock Sports co-owner Peter Johnston said.

"We get calls pretty much every day," he said regarding the bikes. The store has seen a fair amount of business lately from families who have moved to the area within the past year, and are looking to tune-up their bikes, or get new sneakers or other outdoor wear.

"Hiking is going to be very strong this year," Johnston noted. "Everybody wants to get outside."

Like other warmer days, Saturday seemed to bring even more of that business, with its high approaching 60 degrees.

"It's a beautiful first day of spring, you can't ask for more than that," Johnston said.

The good news is, that pattern is set to continue into the week, per local forecasts. Saturday is the first in a string of four sunny days coming up, each with temps in the low- to mid-60s.

With that, as the winter weather gradually fades, we look forward to more signs of spring. The ever-warming air fills us with the joyful feeling that a new season is on its way. This year, that feeling carries something extra with it, the hope of a very different year from the past 12 months. The harmonious beauty and vibrancy of spring encourage us to continue toward that goal, at this annual time of renewal. As we look forward to the full effect of spring, let's embrace hope for one another and nurture that precious sense of community we so cherish. That provides a firm foundation for progress, and a source of strength that never runs out.

— Gareth Henderson

Tending the garden

The sun breaks through the clouds in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

On Monday, I was at the hardware store in town, gathering supplies for a home improvement project. I noticed racks of seed packets, pots and soil. Wide-brimmed woven sun hats and new fashionable gardening gloves were waiting for their new gardening homes. My wife is a collector of both. Gardening has been on our minds over the last few days, as we had a taste of spring weather tucked in between snow squalls, blustery wind and cold temperatures. 

We wondered, what should we plant? Last year we planted a little too much squash, but it benefited our neighbors and the local food bank. This year, the promise of rows of carrots, lettuce, red cabbage and fresh tomatoes brings promise of a plentiful harvest, nourishing our soul and body. Long ago, I always rolled my eyes when my wife wanted yet another pair of gardening gloves or a sunhat, but now they are more than material things; they are hope, gratitude and love. They are part of expecting and knowing that the path to a bountiful harvest is right here in front of us. Indeed, we know seeds will germinate and fill the garden with vegetables. 

That also shows how the ideas of growth and nourishment are so much bigger than any material object. The family time and creativity that come along with tending the garden are the real harvest. This garden is a complete idea from its very inception, made of those strong virtues that bring it to life. Reflecting those qualities of love and gratitude, we become better gardeners of our own lives. We take better care of the soil, which represents the various elements of our collective experiences. We’re aware of what seeds we buy and plant — what we allow to prosper in consciousness. That’s the kind of cultivation that leads us down good paths, and it helps us plant seeds that encourage growth and progress.

— Gareth Henderson

Expanding broadband: A must for equity

A winter scene along Wyman Lane in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

With the end of the pandemic more firmly in view, a stubborn economic and education equity issue still looms large and is gaining more of the spotlight. 

Over the past year, inequities in high-speed broadband access — both geographically and economically — have been laid bare due to increased need for remote learning and telehealth services. Moreover, the path to more broadband is also a path to more jobs and sustainable, long-term economic development.

At the federal level, the new $1.9 trillion relief bill aims to help expand high-speed broadband in multiple states — Vermont has $113 million coming for infrastructure aid, including broadband. 

State legislative efforts are becoming prolific in regions from New England to the South and the rural West. A broadband bill is working its way through the Vermont House of Representatives, with a focus on supporting the growth of communications union districts, like ECFiber, which has greatly improved high-speed broadband access in the east-central Vermont region. 

Vermont’s governor, lieutenant governor and state lawmakers have repeatedly noted the broadband issue, the current gap and the need to address it. In a letter to state leaders last week, Vermont Lt. Gov. Molly Gray described the broad impact.

“For the roughly 66,000 Vermont homes and businesses without access to broadband, each day of the pandemic has been a day without equity in access to online learning, remote work, tele-health, mental health and support services, government resources, civic engagement and much more,” Gray said. 

She also noted her support for a bill crafted by U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, of Vermont, which is now part of the $94 billion broadband package introduced by 30 House and Senate Democrats on Thursday. Welch’s focus was providing access to “unserved and underserved households”, and he also set aside some funding specifically for small states.

“The digital divide is real and has only widened since the start of the COVID pandemic,” Welch said in a statement last week. “There is no disputing that fast, reliable broadband service is essential in our modern economy. After a year of remote schooling, online medical appointments, and family Zoom calls, the need for high-speed internet for all Americans is even more clear.” 

Welch is a member of the Broadband Task Force led by House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, of South Carolina, a key author of the $94 billion plan. Clyburn highlighted broadband as a long-term economic need.

“We’re not going to grow the economy in our communities all across the country without broadband,” he told The Washington Post. “The investments we’re making in this, and the build-out over three to four years, makes this one of the best infrastructure efforts we can undertake today.”

Though it was the pandemic that thrust broadband into the spotlight more than ever, the growing need for this service extends beyond the current crisis. The future of economic development hinges on it, as does access to education. Online learning will change, develop, and expand in the coming years, from the younger grades through college. Telehealth will grow, and connecting to high-speed internet is a clear must-have for businesses. 

Decades ago, the country reached a point where having multiple regions underserved — or untouched — by electrical utilities was simply no longer an option. Broadband is at that point, and the federal funding and legislative efforts at the state level are encouraging. Hopefully, new dollars and new programs can be deployed for everyone’s benefit, especially for those most in need. The great need for broadband access is one lesson from the pandemic that is having an impact on decision-makers. The need has been expressed, not forgotten, and is attracting legislation. That makes it an important moment for the country, and it’s crucial to keep that momentum going. 

Along the way, people may disagree on how to best achieve the goal. But with the renewed focus and steadfast work on this issue, we can take decisive steps to increase access. It appears progress is on the horizon, and broadband is an essential gateway to resources and opportunities — ones that each community needs and deserves.

— Gareth Henderson

Marching forward

Sunset lights up the sky in West Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

In March 2020, analyses about the growing challenges of the pandemic were everywhere. Our economy, schools, work, and travel came to a halt or went remote. Today, we’re not out of the woods, but one year after lockdowns took hold across the country, it’s a much different scene: We’re able to talk about growing points of progress. 

The $1.9 trillion U.S. relief bill is passed, well over 70% of Americans 75 and older are vaccinated, and three vaccines are being distributed.

In Vermont, the state Legislature is working on a fast-track spending bill for pandemic relief, and the push is on to return all schools to in-person learning quickly, but safely. The state opened vaccination appointments for teachers, school staff and child care providers as a group this week — a key step en route to full-time, in-person instruction. As of Friday, 1 in 4 Vermonters had received their first dose of vaccine. 

That all seemed a long way off, a year ago. Vermont had its first confirmed case of COVID-19 on March 5. Vermont’s state of emergency went into effect the following week. Looking back during a recent press conference, Scott emphasized the great progress on vaccines in only one year. 

“When we had that first case, no one could have predicted, just 12 months later we’d already have three safe and effective vaccines rolling out to defend ourselves,” Scott said. 

As vaccine development was underway, we were also stepping up for each other, which officials in Vermont and elsewhere often acknowledged. During the holidays, Scott asked for examples of Vermonters who were selflessly helping their communities, and emails poured in from people highlighting their friends, co-workers and neighbors. Some communities began their own relief programs; the Woodstock community organized the Woodstock Area Relief Fund, which continues to help those in need. Vermont towns saw food bank donations soar, mask-making became a wartime effort, and people volunteered wherever they could to make a difference. 

Such stories exemplify the heart of Vermont, and reflect the community spirit that has sustained us. It is our guiding light to more progress. Creativity, ingenuity, and patience were seen here and in many other communities across the world. Those virtues are foundational, and they empower us to move forward through even the darkest times. Even then, there is always light, some goodness right around the corner to lift us up. Our love and compassion for each other are here to strengthen us, and they point the way to greener pastures ahead.

— Gareth Henderson

Look to the horizon

Clouds are illuminated by the setting sun, as seen from Woodstock’s East End Park. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

What captures our attention? It's a question we may not often ask, but the answer is pivotal to our lives.

What we choose to focus on is the rudder of our day, and how we start our day informs that focus and sets it on a certain course. However, we are still the captain of our own ship. We determine where that course ends up. A few years ago, I went sailing for the first time. It was important to know where the rocks were in relation to getting to the channel. One of the first rules I learned was to look to the horizon and pick a point to sail to, all while avoiding the rocks in the shallow water to get to the open channel. I could have focused on the rocks and never made it to open water, but instead, I made it to the channel and had a wonderful little sail around the bay.

Over the past year, our individual channels of attention encountered multiple figurative rocks as the world changed. Many of us looked out on the world with a different perspective, one that thought of our neighbors more than ever before. Our attention had shifted. The world, our communities, our neighborhoods seemed closer, because of our new, shared experience.

The question is, where do we invest our attention now? This is an individual answer, and as such, answers will vary. However, the best and most productive focus is to emphasize the good every day in the present. Even on our toughest days, the act of moving forward, rising above negative influences, and finding a way to accomplish our goals adds to the collective good. Each individual triumph uplifts the whole. Every neighbor helped, every hurdle crossed, every new insight glimpsed is a light on the horizon we all can share, because we are not separated from each other.

We live in our world together, and every day is an opportunity to see that fact further demonstrated. Plenty is out there to try and divide us further. But we each have a path illuminated with progress, even on the darkest and most impossible days. It begins with turning our attention toward the horizon, the light, the good, and never giving up on that effort. Let's seize every morning as a new opportunity to look forward and see the great possibilities before us.

— Gareth Henderson

Signs of progress

Trees near Lake Pinneo in Quechee, Vermont, on Sunday afternoon. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

While cross-country skiing near some trees this weekend, the late-afternoon sun sharpened and dark-blue tree shadows blanketed the snowy landscape. I saw the shadows shift ever so slightly, every time I moved forward on the path before me. Where shadow seemed to reign, there was also light. 

We have seen many looming shadows over the past year as the U.S. has dealt with the pandemic. Those challenges have begun to shift, and the light of progress has shone a little brighter, with each forward step. For example, Vermonters recently got the good news that, effective on Tuesday, individuals who have been fully vaccinated — meaning two weeks after their second dose — will no longer have to quarantine after traveling to Vermont. This includes visitors coming in from other states, as long as they can prove they've been fully vaccinated.

That change in Vermont was announced Friday in accordance with new CDC guidelines. The state’s public health guidance remains in effect, including the required masking and social distancing, Gov. Phil Scott noted at a press briefing. Though the vaccination process has been going well, Scott said, the state will be cautious about loosening its COVID-19 regulations.

“I want to be very clear: We’re going to do this carefully and methodically, like we have throughout the pandemic, and I’m asking for your patience as we work our way through this,” Scott said Friday. 

Vermonters’ strong adherence to public health guidance has helped greatly reduce COVID-related deaths and hospitalizations since January, the governor said, noting the state’s successful vaccination effort has also contributed to that progress. As of Friday, over 21,000 Vermonters age 70 and older had already signed up for their vaccine shots, after that age group had become eligible just three days earlier. That means Vermont will be able to open registration to the 65+ age group “very soon,” Scott said.

The hopeful COVID-19 data has also allowed progress on other pandemic regulations. Recently, the state allowed competitions for winter sports to proceed, and school music rehearsals and performances were given the green light as well. All these activities of course, must follow specific health guidelines, with no audiences or game crowds allowed. 

One of the state’s more stringent rules came just before the holidays: Vermont’s ban on multi-household gatherings. However, the governor on Friday said the state is taking a look at how the new CDC guidance may impact that rule, and he expects to make an announcement this week. 

All this comes amid a backdrop of steady improvement for COVID-19 data here and around the country. New cases in the U.S. have been on the decline since mid-January — same for Vermont and much of New England. The data suggests vaccines are a big part of that positive trend, and vaccination will speed up as more supply becomes available. 

Recent trends are indeed hopeful, and they help that light of progress shine brighter. For many individuals and business owners, those brighter days can’t come soon enough. Businesses need the larger crowds and greater traffic flow to survive, especially during the busier, warmer months. People deeply miss being able to gather with family and friends, and communities miss having the cherished annual events we all love. 

All those things remain possible. But first, we must renew our patience and our care for one another, and forge ahead through this winter of change. We can know that, although stages of progress may seem small with our hopes so great, they’re each a forward step and a reassurance that we’re heading the right direction. The hard work so many have done for their communities and the state is encouraging to remember as we face the shadows ahead. While we proceed, those challenges will shift as progress resolves them and guides us toward better days. The last several months have shown that the state, region and country can indeed make progress together. This is not only a chance to resolutely pursue that path, but to build a stronger future, using all we’ve learned during the pandemic. We’re equal to that task, and we have an opportunity to seize.

— Gareth Henderson

Starting out with good

The sun breaks through along Route 4 in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

It’s easy to be swept up in the energy that seems to be prevalent today. From the pandemic, to economic woes and the sense of division in Congress and the country, there’s a troubling weight to current events. 

But, especially now, the most important daily consideration is what we allow to exist and grow in our thinking. Our thoughts are the real fuel by which we get through the day, and only we, ourselves, can consistently give them a foundation of good that guides our experience. Years of working in a newsroom environment taught me this quite well, because the news cycle often brings you topics which are difficult to hear. Creating a routine that brings positive momentum to your day is critical, because it sets it on a positive trajectory based in goodness. It also brings reassurance that good is always available and able to lead us forward — a good reminder to have when we grapple with the more difficult topics of life.

As we embrace a positive start to the day, it’s also important to have aspects of our day that inspire us. Throughout recent months, I’ve increasingly appreciated how important this is, because it lends a kind of freedom to thought that grows joy in our hearts. We can always use more joy. For me, in the summer and fall, I found that joy in playing tennis, and, later, regularly revisiting old matches I used to watch in earlier years. It was a rediscovery of how much I love that sport, and it’s something I plan to continue. 

This all comes down to remembering what’s foundational to our well-being, even amid the constant busy-ness of daily life. There are important moments in each day, and the most critical one is right after we awake. Starting our day on a positive track, and keeping our thinking inspired for the better, is a sure way to welcome good into our lives and share the resulting joy with others. It can be easy to forget what we need most, but if we remember to plant the seeds of good early in the day, there’s no better way to build the groundwork for daily inspiration, harmony and progress.

— Gareth Henderson

Pausing for progress

A snowy tree is bent along the Prosper Trail in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The more time you spend in nature, the more you notice the unusual. Cross-country skiing along the Prosper Trail in Woodstock, Vermont, on Saturday, I was impressed by a tree so sharply bent that it pointed straight to the side. It had a certain majestic quality, with fallen snow lining each branch and the whole trunk, and the outlines of the mountains and clouds lingering beyond the distant trees.

The image was one of inspiration, making me pause along the trail just to capture that one moment. It reminded me that "pausing along the trail" is a good habit to put into place in daily life, because moments of reflection enrich us. Within them, we have opportunities for inspiration we may not experience otherwise. Sometimes, our daily routines shut out chances for reflection without us even noticing, but that can change if we slow down, consider our actions and put genuine thought into what we do.

That "slower" approach to life frees our thinking, and opens it further toward the acceptance of useful ideas and possibly innovation. Those well-placed pauses till the soil of our thought, so we can cultivate progress and generate expressions of good in our lives. Being more receptive to that good is critical today, because it provides renewal — something the world greatly needs. Each chance we have to help with that renewal, is a chance to make a difference for ourselves and the world. That's the best way to grow as a person, and we should cherish each such opportunity.

— Gareth Henderson

The unexpected joy

A crescent moon lingers before sunrise on Saturday in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Artists thrive on the unexpected — those moments of sudden beauty, change or illumination of thought. You never know what will catch your eye.

This morning, the lingering crescent moon caught my eye while taking a walk. It’s a simple shape we’ve all seen before, not anything like the full moon, but unique in its grace. Its greeting came amid a frigid morning and brought a serenity to the cold, expressing the calm, certain persistence of nature.

In today’s world, that peaceful persistence is reassuring. It underscores the importance of seeking harmony within ourselves, even when we’re going through a struggle, or hearing news about the many challenges people are facing today.

A wonderful way to establish a sense of peace is by accepting each day as a new day, and living in, and honoring, the present moment with an openness to unexpected good. That openness today got me a chance to photograph the moon, and later on, to enjoy some cross-country skiing. I hadn’t planned on either one, but in many ways, the unexpected joy leads to the most fulfilling moments in life. Those moments lead to enriching possibilities, new connections, and new ways to experience the world. They can all bless us in beautiful ways, and it’s always worth keeping the door open to them.

— Gareth Henderson

The light of understanding

A view of Wyman Lane in Woodstock, Vermont, on Thursday afternoon. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Sunlight illuminating the path ahead is one of the more powerful images out in the countryside. It offers a calming, gentle presence, one of peace and vitality supplied for all, without limit.

Those last two words lay out the most comforting aspect of that image: abundance. That sunlight has no label, no price tag, no boundary — it just is. And no matter the weather which creeps in, or storms against it, those beams keep shining.

For me, it was a good time to be reminded of those more reassuring qualities. The news cycle remains heavy, and the political divide in the nation is still a daunting problem. It’s important to not only talk about the potential for unity — that potential should be demonstrated. To me, that's what happened during a recent discussion, “Hold America Together”, hosted online by the national nonprofit Braver Angels, which works to cultivate a greater understanding between those of different political persuasions.

The discussion I'm referring to took place a week after the U.S. Capitol siege, when tensions from that day remained quite raw. That's why it was particularly encouraging to hear this discussion, and one of the most heartfelt moments came during a conversation with U.S. Rep. Dean Phillips, a Minnesota Democrat, and former Utah Gov. Gary Herbert, a Republican. Phillips spoke about how, every day since the events of Jan. 6, he walks the halls of the Capitol thanking people for the work they do.

"There's something remarkable that happens when you express gratitude and that humility that goes with it, and that's how we experience repair and rehabilitation, and I think it's time that our country start expressing a little more gratitude for what we have, because it's precious, it's fragile, and it's in our hands," Phillips said.

That truly captured the spirit of the entire discussion, which also emphasized seeking out people of different views and talking to them, but also listening. As Gov. Herbert mentioned, "I think we need to seek first to understand, and then be understood."

Another encouraging aspect was that 4,000 people were listening in during this online event. True, that's not a huge part of the American population, but we have to begin somewhere when it comes to fixing the divide. Building new understanding between people is a good, strong foundation to start from, and it's uplifting to know there are groups taking the lead on this work and inviting others to help. Those genuine efforts, and the opportunities we each have to participate, are things to be grateful for, and they light the way to healing. But the work needs all of us to play a role and bear witness to each note of progress. There's no better time to live these words of the late civil rights champion, U.S. Rep. John Lewis: "Democracy is not a state. It is an act."

— Gareth Henderson

When gratitude shines

The rising sun tops the mountains in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

A familiar mix of national issues captured the spotlight in recent weeks, and sometimes it's challenging not to be swept up in the various concerns surrounding them. Sometimes, the pressures within our own lives, combined with larger issues in the world, are simply overwhelming.

But one important thing that often gets lost all in the noise, and can also help us, is gratitude. That concept is always important, and it is especially crucial during difficult times. Being consistently grateful for what we have helps us adjust our mental focus toward the good, which is a sure foundation for progress. We all have the ability to find points of gratitude in our lives; we just have to look for them, and value them for the blessings they are.

A song by the Vermont band Pete's Posse, called "A Grateful Place", captures that idea beautifully here:

I can be evermore grateful

Grateful for everyday grace

Whatever remains of this story of mine

Can be told from a grateful place

Even though the events in the nation and the world are daunting ones, we still have the power to build our own stories, and we don't have to let negative influences govern them. Frankly, gratitude can be a way to frame each of our days positively, by acknowledging the good in our lives, some of which we may have taken for granted. For example, we can daily take a few moments to consider what we're grateful for, whether it's something simple like a beautiful view out our window, someone being kind to us, or a major, positive development in our lives. It's a habit that unselfs our existence and adds more love and humility to how we live. And those are qualities we always need.

If we intentionally acknowledge the good in our experiences, we feel a stronger sense of hope, the energy in our day brightens, and we renew and increase our appreciation of life. Gratitude helps us do this. It can build paths to progress by changing our thinking for the better. Such an approach to life is much-needed today, and we don't have to wait for it to appear. The best part is, it can start with each one of us, right now.

— Gareth Henderson

Sharing light amid darkness

The setting sun brightens a snowy afternoon in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Today in Vermont, many of us woke up to zero degrees, or less. That crushing chill makes even the smallest outdoor task seem like an eternity. 

Many of us have also felt the chill of isolation and so many changes to our lives over the past 10 months during the pandemic. There is a thirst for what we used to call “normalcy”, especially when it comes to the activities of daily life. That came out as Vermont Gov. Phil Scott took questions at one of his two weekly press conferences on Friday. One reporter said he’d heard from several frustrated parents looking for answers on what was keeping the state from allowing winter sports teams to finally have games. In mid-January, winter sports were allowed to have expanded practices with limited-contact drills and team scrimmages, but as of Friday, games and competitions still remained off the table. 

Scott responded that the state is monitoring the impact of the expanded practices and scrimmages, and is also watching patterns experienced in collegiate sports, which have seen some COVID-19 transmission among players. He also said community spread of the virus is prevalent in some areas, which is also a factor prompting some caution. 

“I know people are anxious, I know people are frustrated, I know this is important to kids — it’s important to all of us to get back to normal,” Scott said. “But we just don’t want to make any missteps.”

All this reflects a difficult balance we’ve had to strike, in the interest of supporting the well-being of our communities. The experience is deeply shared among all of us, and, throughout these past months, we’ve all had triumphs and also obstacles in these unique times. The mix of experiences has been vast, but the light shone through the darkness has been reassuring. The spirit of helping each other has been particularly inspiring, including volunteers at food shelves, people checking on elderly neighbors, and businesses and community members helping each other, even amid their own struggles.

The kind of unselfish support of other people is still a positive factor among us, and it remains a force for the greater good. Light can appear to be overshadowed at certain points, but it can never be broken. Its nature is to shine as far and wide as possible, reaching into even the most shadowy locations — places where light may have once seemed impossible. The fact that our collective light has continued to shine in the service of our fellow human beings, shows there is still much good to be shared in the world. It’s well worth our effort to remember its impact, which has a ripple effect that can touch hearts around the globe. That much is still true.

— Gareth Henderson

The beauty of contrasts

Pico Mountain in Killington, Vermont, last weekend. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Driving home from my daughter’s cross-country skiing race last Sunday, the sun kept illuminating the landscape everywhere we looked. It was one of the more stunning drives we’ve taken. Quite honestly, there was a beautiful photo opportunity every 15 minutes. But we couldn’t have stopped that often — it wouldn’t have been a popular idea after a long day. 

But we did manage to stop a couple of times, and one of the results was a photo of Pico Mountain, gleaming under the sharp, winter sunlight, mingling with the colors of nature. To me, such contrasts are like gold. Old man winter is a master of contrasts, and the snow is his medium. Very few things are more beautiful than the frozen, snow-filled land nestled beneath a blue sky. The trees enhance that contrast, with their pine-greens and stick-brown hues adding variation. The dark purple colors you sometimes get in the distance are a particular treat. 

The best part of this work is, there’s no telling what contrast you’ll see next. No matter how many times you capture nature through photos, it always seems ready to show you something new. It could be a slight variation on a scene you’ve witnessed before, or it may be a new, awe-inspiring landscape of light and shadow.

This shows that, around every corner, life could be holding something special that will inspire you to keep working at your craft and striving to be your best. It behooves us to keep our minds open to those moments, and to keep the lens of our creativity ready, so we don’t miss out on the good that awaits us. Approaching life with a calm but focused awareness helps us recognize such opportunities and embrace them. That’s how we welcome progress into our lives, even if the opportunity is unexpected. While staying practical, we should also allow room for spontaneity in our thinking, and let new ideas rise to the surface of our minds. With that approach, we free ourselves to welcome new possibilities, and we inspire others to do the same.

— Gareth Henderson

Listening to harmony

The Ottauquechee River on a calm late afternoon in Woodstock, Vermont, as seen from the Ottauquechee River Trail. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Writing has the power to transport you to another place. Indeed, the best books we’ve read have done exactly that. 

Of course, the same is true about music and its innate ability to embrace us in harmony, humility and love. I felt that great calm while listening to “Rain Falling From Roof”, a song performed by famous cellist Yo-Yo Ma and his good friend, musician Wu Tong. The video was released in August as part of Yo-Yo Ma’s #SongsOfComfort project, which he launched at the beginning of the pandemic. 

This tune provides comfort in abundance, and beautifully illustrates the sound its title refers to, and the serene stillness those little raindrops inspire. This song, like so many others, shows that music is a warm blanket for the soul. The most inspiring masterpieces never leave you where they found you. They bring peace and imbue moments with a joyful stillness that’s familiar to each of us. It’s fertile soil for inspiration, and impacts our lives for the better. 

Though that stillness can be overshadowed by the busy-ness of life, it’s so worth resisting that pattern. I strive to remember what we’ve learned in recent months, about how the quiet moment is to be welcomed, and most of all cherished. The embrace of the song I’ve mentioned here, was a beautiful series of notes, some of them so simple in their brilliance. But as a whole, they wove a tapestry of sound that couldn’t be ignored. Their presence draws you in, offering the gift of harmony. 

It’s my hope that in the coming months and years, people can increasingly find more such harmony among each other. If we allow for moments and opportunities of discovery, and embrace them, we’ll be welcoming such progress into our lives. And, far above the noise of dissonance or discord, harmony will ring out louder, and allow us to witness our collective goodness more readily.

As Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote, “Music is the universal language of mankind.” Music helps us recognize our shared humanity, and doing that will allow us to make meaningful collective progress as a society. If we strive for that outcome, and cultivate more awareness of the good we share, the results will bless every one of us.

— Gareth Henderson

Start to finish

The finish during the 5K race on Sunday at Prospect Mountain in Woodford, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

When we hit the mountain, it was 4 degrees. That's the coldest race day I could ever imagine, but if it's your first race of the season, you go for it.

That was the case for my daughter on Sunday at Prospect Mountain, a scenic area tucked into the southwest corner of the state in the small town of Woodford. It’s a nostalgic, old ski area that ran as a rope tow and a J-bar in its early days — and it’s still going, now as a cross-country skiing venue. This past weekend, it hosted part of the NENSA Vermont Cup series, including 5K and 10K courses — my daughter took part in the 5K.

COVID-19 protocols were strictly followed, as dozens of cross-country skiers from all over Vermont competed. Usually, my daughter would have skied in at least five races by now — but indeed, the pandemic has impacted all sports. On Sunday, the sun was gleaming in no small way, and the brilliant, snowy landscape gave us the gift of beautiful surroundings as everyone prepared to race. All of nature’s elements had something of light to them.

That day also gave me the gift of a parenting experience I hadn’t had very often. I had been to my daughter’s races before, but this one was different for me, and not just because of the arctic cold. It was the first time I got to see the process leading up to the starting line, beginning with seeing her wax her skis in the living room the night before, along with all the packing and preparations that go into a two-hour family drive. I saw her perseverance and dedication to her sport, from start to finish. It's a complete experience I didn't have when I was leading a newsroom in my former job, when family time was always short. I’d been to these races before, but I hadn’t fully appreciated how much work went into preparing for them. It was good to be present, even with the challenge of rising before 6 a.m. I was ready.

Part of being ready was turning the RAV4 into a ski lodge of sorts, because with the pandemic, there was no lodge available. We arrived at about 9 a.m., and my daughter went straight from the car into her course preview run, the sunlight beckoning, the cool, windy trail waiting. My wife and I went over to the start, to check out the angles for taking pictures and generally take a look around. A gentle slope would take the racers up into the 5K course, where some windy spots in the woods awaited them. Another slope on the opposite side would bring them down to the finish.

Cheering for our daughter as she double-poled her way out of the start, I felt proud to be there, witnessing the result of her months of work — after her first summer/fall stretch of nonstop training. Her passion for the sport showed then, and it glowed now, even amid such a challenging onslaught of cold. Her plan for pacing herself at different points of the course, was being put into practice, and years of learning put into action with each stride.

As the race ended, my daughter powered through the finish, making it a strong day of racing that was very much worth the wait. Make no mistake, she was very ready to throw on some layers not chilled by the air. One of them was her toasty, insulated reindeer onesie; it's a standby for races. As she headed off to "warm down", I put her cold jacket into one of our bags, as I had dozens of times. But this time, it was with a bit more focus, a bit more attention. I had gone through the whole process of a race day, during one of my daughter’s most challenging competitions. Start-to-finish is a concept in and of itself, and one that’s exemplified in a race. It’s a matter of starting strong, using your power wisely, and persevering through the elements, until the very end.

The power of perseverance enabled my daughter and her fellow racers to finish their course in single-digit temps, with wind. Such an accomplishment is its own reward, a harmonious blend of hard work and dedication yielding progress, something I was proud to witness. It showed me that the true power of any experience is seeing progress right before your eyes, and sharing the good it brings. Sunday was that kind of day, and I'm looking forward to more days like it — even if I have to bring my heaviest jacket along.

— Gareth Henderson

A new dawn

The rising sun casts an arc of light into the sky on Wednesday in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

The radiant moments just before and after sunrise may not get all the attention they deserve. We rush here and there, we don't look up. That's certainly true on days that begin with some clouds, or a bit of haze on a slightly warmer morning, when a less spectacular display of light is expected.

And yet, even when the sky isn't entirely blue, the sun rises, and with its power, tested over the ages, it sends forth a powerful light, a herald of illuminating grace.

While driving through Woodstock, Vermont, in the early hours of Wednesday, the rising sun had a majestic glow, projecting a silvery hue onto nature's winter glory. Down the mountains, over the Ottauquechee River and to the village street where I pointed my camera, came the brilliant light — an unexpected moment, captured and cherished, its own reward.

It was the dawning of a new day, a new beginning for the country on an historic Inauguration Day, welcoming a new president, and the first woman, African American and Asian American to hold the vice presidency. Adversity tried to delay this new dawn, even stop it entirely. But democracy could only keep shining, so very brightly, with a steadfast, rock-solid resolve emanating from its sturdy foundation. Its light wasn't hidden, diminished, or broken. It increased, propelled by a flood of hope from the millions of Americans watching special moments unfold, one after the other.

Still, for others in our great country, this light was darkness. The calls for unity rang hollow on their ears, perhaps stirred anger in their hearts. At this moment, the grace of compassion and the soft voice of love, is the only answer for discontent, frustration, anger or hate. It doesn't matter where on the political spectrum those negative qualities appear — we must always counteract them with goodness, with love, meekness and compassion. To secure a better future for all, our best qualities must direct our progress and be our stalwart guides in the darkness.

This clouded night of obstacles lines the path toward eventual unity, because there will always be challenges to overcome. Along the way, they will demand more of our collective strength as we press on toward the brighter dawn. As William Shakespeare said, "Sweet are the uses of adversity which, like the toad, ugly and venomous, wears yet a precious jewel in his head."

Today, the jewel we seek is a stronger, more unified, and more just society, operating genuinely for the greater good. The most powerful aspect of sunlight, is that it shines equally for all. Whatever your background, whatever your politics, this new dawn offers the opportunity to repair the fabric of a divided country, step by step. With love, empathy and compassion driving it, the work of unity can be uplifting for everyone, just as the light of dawn shares its brilliance with all people.

— Gareth Henderson

Love is still the answer

A snow-topped tree overlooks the water along the Ottauquechee River Trail in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

This week, for the first time, the presidential inauguration will be guarded by 25,000 troops in the nation's capital, with National Guard soldiers there from all 50 states. Also, government buildings are heavily guarded throughout the nation.

That's the current security posture following the U.S. Capitol riot on Jan. 6, and U.S. Rep. Peter Welch, of Vermont, gave a first-hand account of what it's like in Washington D.C. right now, during a phone-in Town Hall with Vermonters on Tuesday.

"If you were in the area, you couldn't get within eight or 10 blocks of the Capitol, the Mall, the Lincoln Memorial or the White House," Welch said. He was sad it had to be that way, because Jan. 20 is supposed to be a day of "public and civic celebration," the congressman said.

But the good news is that the inauguration will go forward, Welch said Tuesday.

"That's going to happen tomorrow, and we're going to get Joe Biden working on COVID and on some economic relief," he said.

On Tuesday night, President-elect Joe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris hosted a memorial in Washington, D.C., to honor victims of COVID-19, as the nation passed a total of 400,000 deaths from the virus. It was a powerful image of national mourning, and also an acknowledgement of the tumult of the past year, which has impacted the entire country.

Looking at the image of the 400 lights around the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool was sobering, but also incredibly inspiring. It was a national moment, at a time in our history where we haven’t had many invitations to jointly reflect as a nation, together. Such a moment is beautifully normal, and something we must do, especially after such a challenging time when we need each other.

Tonight, the country is poised to enter a new time of leadership. It begins with much work to do as a nation. Whatever your political view is, it's clear this will be a time of change during an especially difficult part of our history. But instead of retreating to the comfort of tired political arguments, or sinking into fear, we should look forward more simply: Just start this new chapter with love. That is this country's most powerful protector, which will also serve to strengthen the fabric of our society and unveil new ways we can bridge our differences and work together.

We've felt the sharp edge of political division. Now, we have a great mountain to climb, and many hard steps line the path forward. But only one thing leads up to a better future by fostering genuine collaboration for the greater good. Love breaks patterns of distrust and leavens thought, leaving room for compassion to encourage more constructive, more understanding connections. That is the solution to guide the moment. Love has been the answer before, and still is.

— Gareth Henderson

Staying in the room

Sunset illuminates the clouds as seen from Woodstock’s East End on Monday afternoon. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

It can be tempting to avoid uncomfortable, challenging circumstances, but some of the most important moments in life require the opposite reaction, especially when the stakes are high.

Such was the case when the Problem Solvers Caucus met online the night after the U.S. Capitol riot, to better understand each other’s reactions to the events of Jan. 6 and lay some groundwork for future progress. Amid tension and high emotions, they "stayed in the room", as U.S. Rep. Tom Reed (R-NY) put it during a recent discussion with fellow caucus co-chair U.S. Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), led by the Cornell Institute of Politics and Global Affairs. 

To hear that phrase from someone working at the heart of the leadership of our democracy, during such times, was deeply impactful. That’s because we don’t often hear about people “staying in the room.” From the halls of Congress, to family gatherings, we’ve often heard about people leaving political discussions, or not wanting to have them at all. But the fact is, constructive dialogue is critical to building the kind of progress our nation needs. 

To achieve that, we have to do that work from a sense of empathy - a key part of that three-hour Jan. 7 meeting the Problem Solvers held. Empathy is a building block for progress, even in the most tense of circumstances. It naturally creates a sense of genuine caring, which leads to the most important aspect of doing meaningful work with those who disagree with us: love. Starting with an empathetic approach encourages others to remain in the discussion. For that reason, we must strive to reflect the innate lovingkindness we each have within ourselves. Just as people can sense hate or dislike, they can sense love as well. Simply put, that approach — in Congress and in our own communities — is how we reverse this pattern of political vitriol in our country. 

As civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. powerfully said, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” King had seen, first-hand, the impact of both kinds of thought. Through his work, he knew which approach was more powerful.

In times of strife and fear, love is sometimes cast as one of the weaker solutions to daunting problems. But that’s a false notion, and one that would hamper progress. The fact is, love is a close cousin of courage. Courage is what it takes to peacefully reach out to someone the world would call an enemy, show empathy, and work with them in a genuine, compassionate way. 

This is not to say building these bridges is anything close to easy. Months of difficult discussions, hard work, successes and frustrations led to the latest COVID-19 relief bill spearheaded by the Problem Solvers Caucus. There will be roadblocks that call for tough negotiations and creative solutions. But if we are to be creative — and this time certainly calls for that — we must empower this work through compassion and love. We must remain in the struggle, and not be afraid of discussing differences. Because of the vital nature of this work, we must persist alongside our brothers and sisters. We must stay in the room.

— Gareth Henderson

Cultivating cooperation

A scenic hillside viewed from Cloudland Road in Woodstock, Vermont. (Gareth Henderson Photo)

Cultivation leads to greater things, and it's the same in gardening as in life. Some conditions make it more difficult, but the task is worth the effort. Better days will come if you tend the soil properly — a concept I saw in action while gardening over the summer.

That concept applies to our politics, as well, and there is much work to do. America's partisan divide has deepened greatly, and it seems no corner of the U.S. is untouched by its impact. Even after the Jan. 6 siege on the U.S. Capitol, Congress remains divided, and perhaps even more so following that tragic day.

Though divisions in the country might have deepened further, it's important to remember another impact from that day: It made working together even more crucial. The bedrock of democracy is civil society, in which people can work together for the common good. Taking steps in that direction is key to the cultivation and very survival of our democratic system. The soil is ready for democracy to flourish when we reach common ground and collaborate successfully.

The resolve to do this will be tested quickly in the new administration. On Thursday, President-elect Joe Biden announced his American Rescue Plan, a $1.9 trillion proposal that includes $1 trillion in direct relief to Americans, as well as funding for a national vaccination plan, efforts to contain COVID-19, and relief for communities and businesses. There were no specifics on timing, but Biden has noted all of these as top priorities.

The Biden team faces the challenge of working through critical priorities at the same time as an impeachment trial in the Senate — which could be a difficult test for any bipartisan efforts going through Congress. However, we still must build and sustain those efforts. As the bipartisan momentum behind the latest COVID-19 relief bill showed, there are lawmakers willing to strike a balance and compromise.

As we know, however, the work of cultivating democracy is larger than what happens in Congress. Forging positive connections and finding common ground is very important outside of those chambers. That looks like a steep hill to climb right now, as tensions are high and people appear far apart on big issues. But we have to try to take the necessary steps toward a stronger, more unified America, though progress may be slow at first.

Like cultivating the soil, there are days which feel longer than others, times when it's simply harder to move forward. But forward is the only direction to pursue. We must continue this process, and imbue the soil of our society with love, compassion and empathy. Together, our steps will lead us on to a better place, a stronger democracy, where our best work is done because we care for each other and we truly understand we are one people. Let each of us plant a seed of cooperation and reap the harvest of the greater good.

— Gareth Henderson