Editor,
It’s hard to look at the news these days and not think the world is falling apart.
The more I read about global news, the more I realize two things:
1. People are separated and disconnected from each other
2. That separation is the root cause of many of the issues our modern societies face.
The world seems to be falling apart, because we first fell apart from each other.
If we don’t feel that directly, in our personal lives, we now have front seats to witness the damage that separation can do on a nation level. Our southern border neighbours have essentially reached the pinnacle of division. A battle between two sides, each unable to see the other’s perspective, causing all to suffer. A nation divided seems to be easily derailed, and now that division means to engulf Canada as a “51st state."
I propose that we fight that. Not with violence or vitriol, but with the opposite of separation: connection.
That we engage more with the real world, now that the digital one is so full of psychological traps aimed at making us fearful and suspicious of each other. We should talk to our neighbours, build connections with our local businesses, visit and support our local farms and farmers. It’s easier than it seems, we’re just not used to it anymore.
For example, I created a chat group for the residents of my building, and posted a printed invite in the mail room. Many people joined right away and loved the initiative! Through that group, people offer to share food, recycle items, seek advice or help with a multitude of things.
Now I know many of my neighbours. I know their kids, their pets, and even attended family celebrations in the amenity room! All because of the simple act of providing a place where people can gather and talk to each other. People crave that connection, and it’s not just a feeling; science backs this up.
Research has shown that, biologically and statistically, we are stronger together. Not only are our human brains and bodies hardwired to thrive through empathy and collaboration, communities that have stronger social ties are shown to have: better chance of surviving through a crisis, are faster at rebuilding in the aftermath, and suffer less from chronic and long-term impacts of stress. Stronger resilience, quicker recovery, and greater mental fortitude? It’s too good a deal to ignore!
So please, consider taking some time to get to know your neighbours and build connections with your local community. The simplest actions can make the biggest difference, and it’s harder for the world to fall apart when we hold it, and each other, together.
Wendy Hamilton, Fleetwood, Surrey
