A recent article in the British Medical Journal examined the dynamic spread of happiness in a large social network. Essentially, the authors wrote that 'people's happiness depends on the happiness of others with whom they are connected'. In other words, choose your friends wisely and with a big heart.

I get truly get it. My recent experience for the Inauguration of our 44th President was a giant lovefest, and you know what IT FELT WONDERFUL. Imagine two million plus people engaged in a giant group hug. I have never been around so many happy and kind people in my life.

For instance, I was a lucky winner of tickets to the purple section via my Senator's (shout-out to Chuck Schumer) lottery of a pair of swearing-in tickets. My husband I enjoyed the process of going to the Senate office building on the hill. We were humbled walking the austere hallways , it was more emotional than we both expected. The building was full of families of every ethnicity who were proudly claiming the buildings as their own. I witnessed spontaneous acts of patriotism evidenced by loud singing and picture taking of any walking person in a uniform. Truly heart-tugging.

The next morning we were one of many excitedly walking to the Purple gate only to be stopped by a human mass of other purple ticket holders with no where to go. Frustrated but still happy, we waited anxiously. Finally, we moved, people were very kind and we excused our way out of line to a small, small gate. We were one of the lucky purple ticket holders who made it in onto the capitol grounds. Getting in evidently was a huge disaster for many disapointed ticket holders.

I really think that the overall happiness felt throughout the whole weekend beamed from individuals and families who came to Washington with the deliberate purpose of witnessing change in America will stay with me forever. The good will was contagious via abundant smiles, sincere greetings to strangers and a strong connection just because of a presence. Ticket holders were patient because they trusted and believed in the process. Powerful stuff. Let's continue to spread the love.