I believe the old adage that it’s better to collect your thoughts before blurting something out in the heat of the moment. That makes sense: When we take the opportunity to collect our thoughts, we often find clarity. Communication  goes better in that frame of mind.

This month, we are reaching into our lived experiences and reflecting on who influenced us the most in our lives and how they influenced us. Send your short reflections, artwork, poetry or photographs to editor@riverreporter.com by December 31. 

At the beginning of the month, we explored fear and opportunity in our changed national landscape following the November election. Xeth near Callicoon sent the cartoons below in response to that prompt. For other responses, visit www.riverreporter.com/monthly-convo/.