Our theme for this issue is ( )connect, intended to highlight the struggles and successes that we all have faced in finding connection throughout our lives. As part of this theme, this issue contains stories of disappointment and grief, friendship and family, and the search for connection in a world that can make it so difficult. We would like to leave you with a message of hope: you are free to fill in the parentheses with whatever you want, so make it something good. Please enjoy!
