The 2020 pandemic had us all isolating, whether alone, within a family, or with a designated group of people.
We learned many things about isolating.
Isolating can lead to loneliness, like it did for me, and more tears for those whose loved ones died alone.
Over time, we somehow learned to cope and deal with the situation… some rebelliously, others developing a spirit of contentment.
Meanwhile, we all could not wait for the shelter-in-place to end.
Once it ended… some remained in isolation, some out of fear and others out of complacency.
However we handled this situation, isolation left its mark.
Being comfortable at home, on Zoom, or just being left alone with our own thoughts remains the norm for many.
Isolation, in many situations, has become preferred…
We have solo entertainment 24/7 from social media and streaming services
We get to live without idle chit chat or small talk with random others
We self-feed applause for our own thoughts… avoiding confrontation
Yet, after five years, I see the rot, damage, and destruction isolation can create.
Our beings are robbed of what unknowingly nourishes us. Namely, relationships, communities, and connecting… all done in person.
It is time to stop the starvation and re-ignite the socialization.
Goodbye, isolation!