I write this on the day of the only scheduled Presidential Debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. It is five weeks until ballots in Washington state will be mailed to all voters.

I don’t know how you’re feeling about the election, but I’m counting the days until it’s over. I am worried and stressed when I think about it, which is multiple times a day. The list of what frightens me about the possible outcome is longer than I care to recount. Just typing these words leaves my chest tight. I suspect that it’s the same for many of you.

I was reminded today of Parker Palmer’s book Healing the Heart of Democracy. Published in 2011, it invites us to center in on the human dimensions of our political system.

Here’s what he tells us:

When all of our talk about politics is either technical or strategic, to say nothing of partisan and polarizing, we loosen or sever the human connections on which empathy, accountability, and democracy itself depend.

If we cannot talk about politics in the language of the heart — if we cannot be publicly heartbroken, for example, that the wealthiest nation on earth is unable to summon the political will to end childhood hunger at home — how can we create a politics worthy of the human spirit, one that has a chance to serve the common good?

It’s a worthy reminder for us as the election season comes to a close, and as we prepare for how it settles out after a winner has been declared. As we continue to surf the waves of anxiety and chaos that characterize the present political scene, I encourage us all to keep coming back to our hearts. Let us keep returning to serving the common good of all people. Remember what you most long and hope for in our communities: from the nation to our neighborhoods to the lost and forgotten people on the outskirts of our attention.

And keep in mind Michelle Obama’s wise counsel: do something if you’re feeling anxious. Talk to your neighbors, write postcards, make get-out-the-vote calls. And vote as soon as you get your ballot. Getting our votes in means that the campaigns can focus on the less committed voters.  Voting early allows a good use of the resources of the campaigns.

Finally, keep connected to each other. In fearful times, we need one another even more. Come to services, make dates to go for a walk or have coffee, gather your friends for a meal. Remember that you’re not alone.