People around the world are being instructed to practice "social distancing". But is "social" distancing really the right term? Instead of say, "physical" distancing?

We live in a world where thankfully, there are many different ways to stay connected. While we are being asked to remain within our homes as much as possible, this certainly does not mean we should stop (or have stopped) connecting with others. Quite the contrary. Now, humans are finding more and more creative ways to stay in touch. Group video chats, phone calls to grandparents just to say hello, balcony/porch singalongs with neighbours. Now more than ever, humans are having purposeful, authentic human interactions...a shining light amongst the darkness. 

If you ever cannot find the light, ignite your own! Connect with others around you. Reach out when you need support, and support others when you can. Small acts can make a big difference - not just for others - but for you as well. We all could use a little more of that right now. 

Ways to connect:

Acts of Service:

• Share, share, share!!
• Deliver food or supplies for the vulnerable (ie. elderly, those in quarantine, those struggling, etc.)
• Consider the needs of others
• Donate to your local food bank or shelters
• Don't take more than you need
• Teach your grandparents how to use video calling
• Create your own “good deed”
• Set personal boundaries and respect those of others 

Words of Affirmation:

• Mail your grandparent(s) a letter - just because
• Draw a motivational sign and display it in your window for all to see
• Write a positive message on the sidewalk in chalk
• Check-in (not just on those you know are struggling - because you never know who else may need support)
• Tell the people in your life how you feel 
• Validate the feelings of others as well as your own

Gift Giving:

• Send (or cut your own) flowers - just because
• Bake something for your neighbours
• Know a fun DIY craft? Share it with others
• Buy or make your parents dinner
• Support local businesses 
• Give blood
• Buy food for a family member or friend (ie. order pizza/Uber Eats) - extra fund if you do it as a surprise

Quality Time:

• Listen!! (without distractions)
• Set technology bans (ie. no phone Sundays, no phones during meals, etc.)
• Get together with family and friends as much as you can
• Play a board game or cards
• Learn a new activity/craft with someone
• Go for walks with others
• Have coffee/tea/wine/dinner dates (virtually)

Too often before all this, too many of us were choosing to interact via text messages and social media over anything else. Perhaps we took for granted the power and importance of actual human contact. Let us use this as a powerful reminder of the importance of real, present and authentic human contact. Lessons we will keep with us once "social" distancing rules are lifted.