Social Distancing

It’s an oxymoron. How can you be social and distant? 

Do social media and technology finally attain a higher purpose? Perhaps, though they have so many limitations. There is no substitute for physical proximity and eye-to-eye contact.

Social distancing is an odd term. Very clear and very imperative in one sense. Very conflicting and intriguing in another.

We live in a fractured and angry society that has already pulled itself apart. Then came this health emergency that has the potential to unite us, only we need to practice “social distancing.”

This crisis will pass, in weeks or months, I suppose. We pray the resultant disease, death and disruption are minimal.

I wonder what’s on the other side, when this thing has played out. What effect will it have beyond the crisis?

Technology and politics have already had their viral effect that caused a social distancing of another variety. People will not be bothered to have a real conversation, so they use a technological shortcut. Everything became political. So, we have to be part of the same tribe to be friends.

I might be dreaming now, but it is a dream that can come true. 

What if this crisis gave birth to a new appreciation of our family, friends, neighbors, and associates? What if we saw the value, worth, and wonder in each person we encounter (even if we think their politics are stupid).

What if we took it upon ourselves to brighten their day with a little joy, humor, or compassion? What if our lives took on a rich, new meaning because of our relationships with others?

Hopefully, before too long it will again be appropriate to shake hands, to hug, to kiss.

What if we simply remembered that we need to love and be loved to live a life of meaning?