The small group who showed up to Alli Simon’s meditation and reflection event at Compound—a new art and community hub in Long Beach—the evening after Election Day were looking for solace, and even if just for a moment, a chance to feel grounded as votes were still being counted across the country. Their footsteps crunched on the packed gravel as each took their place in the outdoor courtyard hoping to be led toward a feeling of peace. Dogs barked and airplanes hummed overhead, while those seated were quiet but spoke when asked to share their feelings.
One attendee wanted to unwind, another said her love for Long Beach had been renewed, others said they’d had to tune out the news cycle, while others were up late into the night, glued to the TV screen.
Airrion Copeland, Compound’s executive director, said focusing on his 9-month old son reminded him of what’s really important in life. Despite the tension of Election Day, it seemed those at Compound Wednesday night, and perhaps those following along on the livestream, were able to find some rest, if only for an hour.