The Smile: Inauguration Day

January 20, 2025

Hi friend,

I’ll be honest—this is one of the hardest newsletters to write, given the reality of today’s inauguration. With Trump taking office, it feels like a dark moment in American history, one that’s weighed heavily on many of us.

I’ve read countless messages from folks sharing how they’re feeling: anxious, nervous, terrified, exhausted. I feel it too. But here’s an important reminder—hopelessness is exactly what the oligarchs, dictators, and fascists want.

I won’t sugarcoat it though. These next four years will likely be challenging, and there will be days when finding good news feels like an uphill battle. But even in moments like this, hope persists. It’s in the love of friends and family, acts of kindness, the beauty of nature, and the glimmers of progress we find in the news.

The Smile will continue to be here to remind you that hope hasn’t gone anywhere—it’s all around us, even when the world feels dark. We’re in this together. Let’s hold onto the light. 💛

Thank you for reading, and we hope these articles shine a light on your day.

In solidarity,

Emily from The Smile

P.S. Know someone who could use a dose of good news? Forward this email and encourage them to subscribe to The Smile. Let’s spread the positivity together. 🌟

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