The past three years have been brutal to our society. Not only financially, but on an interpersonal level as well. People no longer trust their fellow human beings. It no longer seems important to go, mix and mingle. It is much safer to stay home than to risk going out.
Gen. 2:18 tells us, “It is not good for man to be alone.” This is specifically talking about Adam’s need for Eve. There are several other references to friends in the Bible (although many warn against false friends and putting them before God). The need for relationships is real. When one is left alone with his/her own thoughts, that is a recipe for disaster.
And that recipe is called “intrapersonal conflict.” It arises when one is confused about what is expected or when one has no idea what he/she really wants out of life. Staying home away from the world allows our brains to make up a scary scenario. We begin to worry about all the things that might happen if we do venture forth. So, as a protective measure, we stay in, preventing all those terrible things from happening. See how smart we are! We are safe. (sigh) However, that breeds paranoia to the point where we can’t go out. We become paralyzed at the front door.
Studies are showing that young children are not socializing properly with their peers due to virtual classrooms. They are experiencing anxiety that is totally not age appropriate. Children as young as second grade are having suicidal ideation. What is happening to our society!?
GI Joe used to say that “knowing is half the battle.” The other half is putting that information to good use. Since we KNOW that staying in our own little bubble is not good for our mental health…
GET BACK OUT THERE!
Plan a backyard party. Go to the drive-in. Take a walk in the park. Go play BINGO. Plan a potluck at the church. Take a trip to the beach. Babysit the grandkids. Plant a garden. Start a crochet club. Teach your neighbor how to play the guitar. There are a thousand ways we can get involved. I know it’s difficult to take the first step. But take it. It’s worth it. It will make our world (your world) a better place for you and everyone who takes the chance!