The power of connection, according to our readers

It's been almost a week since the Facebook and Instagram outage that shook the online world.

In Tuesday's newsletter, my colleague Kelly wrote about the lessons we were from the social media break. She also asked our readers how they felt about it.

While things seem to be back in order, Monday's hiccup definitely caused some stress for some of our readers while others were happy for the social media outage.

Connie Ransberger said Instagram is her family's method of "staying in touch with our son in another state."

"It's critical to my mental wellness; I can see all is well so I don't worry quite as much. Moms worry!" she writes.

For Jo Williams, 83, Facebook and Instagram are "wonderful ways to stay in touch with family and friends and to keep up to date on what is going on in my community."

"I also appreciate reading many of the fascinating stories, jokes, etc., that others share. I am widowed and have moved several times, leaving behind folks I don’t want to lose contact with," Williams continues. "Facebook and Instagram are connections I truly am thankful for."

Others, however, didn't mind being disconnected from their social media apps.

"I try not to use my phone too much," writes Nicholas Zoeller, adding it's probably unhealthy to use our phone constantly, especially social media. "(It's) nice to take a break from social media."

Thanks to everyone who shared their thoughts!

Looking for love? Here's what to look for in a partner.

It can be difficult to know what to prioritize when looking for a partner, but it’s important to find a partner that fits you.

It’s easy to get caught up in how someone looks, their level of success or their social media persona. These things may be important to you, but choosing a partner might involve looking a little deeper.

To help choose a partner that aligns with who we are and what we need, Sara Kuburic, the Millennial Therapist, made a list of things to look for.

Although they are not always easy to identify, the following qualities may be worth prioritizing:

Communication and honesty: It’s difficult to have a deep relationship without communication. If someone is willing to communicate (even imperfectly), it means they want to connect. If you date someone who will be honest about their feelings, thoughts, beliefs and needs, it can help ensure that you not only understand the person but also honor who they are.

Self-awareness and authenticity: A partner who is self-aware will be more aware of how they show up in the relationship and impact it.

Vulnerability: The degree of vulnerability a partner is willing to embrace will dictate their degree of intimacy.

To read the full story, click here.

Today's reads

• You may love pumpkin spice, but do you know its surprising origins?
• Still searching for a Halloween costume? Here are 11 pop-culture costumes ideas for 2021, from that Bernie meme to 'Bridgerton'
• Media has erased Black, queer love stories, but not anymore thanks to Lil Nas X and more
• Lowe's is hosting trick-or-treating at stores nationwide before Halloween. Here's how to register
• Characterizing cancer as a 'war' assumes it can be won. Is that too simple?

Today's pet

Meet Ollie.

This adorable Irish terrier was sent in by reader Karen Campbell earlier this year. Ollie looks so relaxed, it's almost making us wish it was pool weather again!