Let’s talk… Friendships can fix an American problem
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Let’s talk… Friendships can fix an American problem
By Jean Davenport-Niles
A Fox News report last week delt with the “epidemic of loneliness that is currently sweeping across the country.” Their research showed more than one in three adults aged 45 and up report feeling lonely on a regular basis, while an alarming 60% of younger people say they’re chronically lonely. “U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy warns that loneliness increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia. It also negatively impacts our civic discourse.”
It seems that our circle of finding new friends is diminishing and social media sites are more of a photo op-“look at me, see what I am doing”; thus, replacing face to face conversation and interactions. The promised of technology for connection is used more to say “Waldo, is here”. Do most people really care about that? Staring at screens all day might make us feel busy with real or anonymous people but it might also take you or others to a place call “loneliness”. “Technology has made loneliness and division worse, but friendship can help fix America’s problems”, states Jim McCann, Fox journalist.
Remember the fun at bingo nights, attending church, covered-dish dinners, book clubs, community picnics, canaster parties, cooking meals for others and sing-along fests! Getting together for a cup of coffee can replace loneliness quickly for some. Don’t let go of these simple treasures of interactions that were once the highlight for many.
Politics also now seems to separate people yet it is possible to start thinking about what we have in common rather than what ideas makes us different. It could be our children, crazy jokes, recipes, health issues, hobbies and more. Be aware that everyone wants to be included, loved and needed even if they might be deemed “odd out.” We want to return our county and its people to our great history of common sense and hospitality. Stay connected, in person, with old friends and those new ones you meet. McCann reminds us “neglect is poisonous to friendships.” There are ways to heal and keep us less divisive-Be a Better Friend to All!
Each reader who feels their cup is running over and not dry, might do as the article suggested. Look at your calendar and make something different happen this month for others. In person or over the phone connections are best. Maybe listing all those you haven’t seen in months or this year? A sincere “how are you doing I have missed you” might lead to a visit. Suggest things like saving a seat at church or “meet me for coffee” or “may I stop by for 15 minutes”. Small acts of kindness will make an impact on those who secretly suffer loneliness. Offer a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on if they have a time of need. Surprise your friends with unexpected gestures of gratitude and support. A neighbor this week sent out a text to their local contacts, asking if anyone needed help from the storm—a gesture of helpfulness and kindness.
The next few months will be stressful as election approaches with the holiday season. Many people need a physical touch, food delivery, emotional support, a genuine smile, a healing hand, a whispered “love you” and a strong connection. Let’s not allow any devises to separates friendships or keep us from meeting new people. You can help fix a problem and do something that really matters at the same time. “Friendship is the golden thread that ties the heart of all the world.”-John Evelyn