In a temporary triumph over our algorithmic overlords, I have managed to steer most of my online feeds towards gardeners, baby animals, and singers. This means I saw a lot of replays this week of the movie premiere where a so-called fan rushed toward a famed musical lead. Her costars leapt into action, one shoving the man aside and another grabbing her hand – all before the security team could even respond.

Friends, it would be dreadful to tiptoe through each day fully armored-up. But occasionally we are ambushed by life, often without warning and sometimes when we are most defenseless.

Dear ones, when the spoilers leap the barricades,

may fierce protectors surround us.

And when we are the ones to spot the storm,

may we be loving shields.