2024: Rachel Henry, Just tell them you are came to learn

Dear Rachel,

I believe that the highest compliment you can pay someone is to fall apart in their presence- especially when you have known them for only a few minutes. I loved our spontaneous powerful conversation about race, bias and cancel culture that resulted in tears in the middle of a jewelry store.

Self-conscious about how to “show up” in brave conversations in communities where I may not be welcome or belong, you simply suggested – go to learn. 

I’ve had a lifetime of training to pitch in, raise my hand and try to fix things.  It was a great idea to simply shift my gaze to listening and learning.  As Jane Fonda famously said “It’s more important to be interested than interesting”.

Gratefully,

Ann Simonds

aka Annie Hoagland