Embrace others

If you are feeling a strain from the chaos and instruction, it is reasonable to assume that others are too.

Sure, we know some are gloating. There have been other posts about how putting some distance between yourself and people like that can be necessary, but you know there are people who care.

You may notice that they are posting a lot of news, or a lot of frustration, because some people are pretty open.

Some people might not know what to say. Some people may have been shouted down enough by others (from whom distancing might be useful) that they are holding back, which may mean more internal churning.

We can support each other. That feeling of connection is important; we want to be in community.

It is also important because it is doing something, even if it is small. 

We don't want to lose sight of individuals.

It may be helpful to take some of this contact outside of social media, but there are things to be gained from social media as well.

We frequently see people who put laughing emojis on stories of suffering, and are quick to add negative comments on anything good. 

I can only assume that their lives aren't very meaningful to them. Maybe they have offline things that they like, but if it were that satisfying I don't think coming on to bully others, screech about Portland being burned down, and mock people in need would seem like a good use of time.

Be the opposite of that. 

Sure, on social media, when you see good things like them, share them, and comment on them. Express care. 

Take that offline too.

Texting is relatively convenient. Calls and visits can take more coordination, but can also be more personal.

Tell people what you appreciate about them.

Last year I sent a friend a fairly meaningful note for Christmas. This year, I had less to give, and pretty much only said "Merry Christmas". 

That can be okay. Cards can be great for short messages.

We recently did a round of thank you notes in relation to our father's death. We will have some more to do.

Valentine's Day is coming up, and we will send cards for that. 

(Sometimes you do need to remind people to check their mail when you go so old school.)

Take someone soup. 

(If you post about that, it may draw criticism from horrible people. Don't care about that.

https://www.fox5ny.com/news/chili-controversy-neighbors-good-deed-draws-online-outrage)

Even if there is someone you need to admonish, that can be done privately and with care; calling in as opposed to calling out. 

There is a lot of evil in this world, but there is good too. It is important that we do not lose sight of the good. Sharing that may be a small source of light, but it is one that still matters. 

Potential action item:  Think about someone whom you are glad to have in your life, and tell them.

Related posts:

https://sporkful.blogspot.com/2024/11/setting-boundaries-before-thanksgiving.html