A few weeks ago, a company we invested in shut down. The founder sent a very detailed email to the investor base explaining the situation. I responded with three clear questions: 1. I am very sorry to hear this, are you ok? Losing a company is a very personal loss. I want to make sure that you yourself are okay. 2. Is there anything that I can do in the next steps with the investor base to help? 3. What are your thoughts on your next steps? Is there anything I can do to help facilitate those? This is not the time to discuss lessons or negotiate for cents. This is the moment of peak pain. Be gentle. The way you act in hard times is the way you will be treated in good times. People will always appreciate you for thinking long term and being there for them when it matters.