We’ve been in quarentine for going on 6 weeks now. That’s 6 weeks without going to our regular social outings, meetings, work, going to church, or even going to a restaurant with friends. That kind of departure from a normal routine can be devastating for a person who struggles with depression or lonliness in a normal time.
Let’s all be intentional about reaching out to our friends and loved ones. Call someone today. Write a letter or email. Walk over to the edge of your yard and say hi to your neighbor. Check on those in your life who you know may be struggling with lonliness right now, the elderly, the sick, the people who have social anxiety. Be the person who calls. And then keeps calling.
And for those of you who are quarantined with your family, be intentional with these relationships too! Don’t forget to create fun times for the kids- game nights, eating a picnic lunch, taking time away from the phone to be fully present with them. It can be easy to feel as if you are always around each other, and forget to be actually present.
And those of you with significant others, spouses, or partners: put away the sewing and have a date night tonight. We know you don’t have any other plans. Have a real conversation, phones put away. Ask the deeper questions about how they are really doing. Nextflix and *ahem* CHILL. You will both be the better for it. We promise- we’ll still be here tomorrow.
JoyPlusGrace 