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Staying Connected

in a Time of Physical Distancing

“I have called you friends.” John 15:15


Even for an introvert, these circumstances requiring us to stay at home present challenges. We humans are social beings, and like the corona virus, we depend on people for our very existence. So how are you staying connected to others while you’re not able to be in their physical presence?

   

We’re grateful for the technology that allows us so many options that I’m sure the folks facing the Spanish flu in 1918 couldn’t even have dreamed of. Yesterday we were able to worship together—albeit remotely—watching our familiar clergy, music minister, choir and lay readers in our familiar worship space. As the camera panned the grounds, I loved seeing them in all their beauty, bursting forth in new life—the daffodils, the flowering trees, the labyrinth. We’re able to continue classes and meetings, Noonday Prayer, Centering Prayer, and these daily reflections—all thanks to modern technology. In this time when so much is unknown, there is great comfort in the known, in the familiar.

   

As we began our physical distancing, I set a goal of contacting one friend each day—usually by phone. I’m starting with the friends who live alone, and it’s great to have a prompt to get in touch. Friends since the age of 6, Marie and I commiserated, “We can’t believe we’re considered elderly!” A former neighbor who has had a hard time adjusting to her move to a retirement facility seemed glad for an opportunity to vent a bit.

   

Our four children have been in more regular contact with us. Barney and I think they have a schedule with one assigned to call us each day. Our daughter Kerry called a Friday social hour by Zoom, something we hadn’t done before. Matt (in SC) asked Kristin (in CT) when her brie would be ready! Two of the grandsons set up a long-distance chess game. Zoom worked so well, we scheduled one for 2:00 yesterday so we could include my sister and brother-in-law who live in Germany and my niece who works as a physician at a hospital in northern Germany. We had seven “Hollywood Squares” and decided to keep this a weekly meeting.

   

As Mr. Rogers said, “In difficult times, look for the helpers.” I am grateful for the helpers who have crossed my path. A neighbor has picked up groceries. A student I hadn’t met posted she was home from college and had a car and a lot of time on her hands and would be happy to make grocery runs. When I asked her what I owed her, she said, “Just the cost of the groceries.”

   

I so look forward to the time we can be together again in the same physical space. In the meantime, I hold you all in my prayers as I covet yours. I look forward to hearing how you’re staying connected with the people you love and care for, and I pray for the peace of God that passes all our understanding to keep us grounded in the knowledge and love of God. 


Shalom my friends,


Jackie+

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