I'm Ada Lemone and this is The Slowdown.

I like the idea of belonging, how we can call the world closer to us.

I believe in the connectedness of living things and rituals in the power of language.

Those small ways I can help ground myself when I feel like I'm spinning off into the chaos

of the world.

I like candles for friends or family who are sick or in need.

I grow and braid sweet grass and give braids to friends.

I think it's important to make eye contact when you're toasting someone, and like my

friend Fernando taught me, I say ohos, ohos, if someone tries to drink before looking

me in the eyes.

I talk to my houseplants.

I believe plants can get lonely in an empty room, even with the right amount of light

or water.

I say hello to the three crows on my morning walk.

I don't think we're friends yet, but they seem to put up with me in the dog.

One of my belief in these moments of what some might call superstitions or rituals is

that I want to be sure that I'm acknowledging the world around me, not just staring at

my phone or dooms scrolling or worrying about what's next.

Staying closer to home these days, I'm always noticing the trees and birds and grasses

that surround me.

I learn their names too.

It's a way of feeling like I'm not alone.

...