Friendly in the Age of Covid
Written by Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. ”
My daughter always laughs when she gets back from out East, or her friends from Pennsylvania, where she went to college, come to visit her. Her friends are always baffled by how friendly she is to strangers. Her Eastern friends are shocked when they see the Midwest and find so many of us are polite and inquisitive of others. Her friends find it almost creepy and talk about how strange it would be if people out East were friendlier to one another.
I appreciate the Midwestern warmth and casual conversation between people. Studies show that even informal conversations can provide warmth and meaning to one’s life. Something as simple as a smile can bring joy to one’s daily routine. Unfortunately, the lack of informal communication is part of what makes Covid such a struggle. Between shutdowns and wearing masks, we become more separated from each other. Rather than blame or deny the virus, or refuse to wear a mask, it is incumbent upon us to find intentional ways of sharing care and compassion for one another.
In a Washington Post opinion column on October 5, 2021, Helaine Olen points out, “…these interactions were declining even before the pandemic.” Olen confirms the decline of civility due to the human separation created by social media. She also cites the book, The Power of Strangers by Joe Keohane. Keohane found, “The wealthier conversation partner was generally less socially engaged. Academics believe the more money people have, the less they believe they need other people-and, all too often, act accordingly.” Now, add a pandemic to the situation, and the sense of loneliness and isolation can feel overwhelming.
Building community, even with acquaintances, is an essential part of a meaningful life. We share Christ every time we bring a sense of warmth or care to another human being. Life without friendly relationships is intolerable. Finding a fruitful relationship with God provides the passion and wisdom to reach out in great and small ways to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. Prayerfully ask God to embrace opportunities to offer a friendly face or a friendly wave while wearing a mask.
