At the post office in Littlefield yesterday, there were lines on the floor where people were to stand to make sure they didn’t get too close to each other. It was actually a smart idea that I wouldn’t have thought of. The woman in front of me said the grocery store had posted places to stand, too. I was thankful we were still able to speak, even though I wore a mask. When my dad went to the doctor, they had to stay in their car until they were called on the phone and escorted in, one at a time. Many lobbies have closed and only do business by phone or internet.
We basically live in Mayberry “where everybody knows your name.” In Sudan, we are used to interacting with others. We know the ins and outs of each others’ lives. Our kids have lots of Mamas who watch them grow up and love them as their own. We consider each other family. It is a community in the true sense of the word.
“Social distancing.” That is not a phrase we will soon forget. It is the practice of staying at least 6 feet away from other humans. It is very necessary and very needed during this time to protect our people and our country. But it sure does cramp my style. Staying away from others is not my body’s normal response. I have loved on our people from church since I was pregnant with Sierra. Our Circleback family out there are mostly huggers, so Sundays are great! When a Sunday goes by and I missed visiting face to face or hugging one of our members, I generally realize it and text my apologies. Those interactions are a very important part of our lives.
I am not good in crowds, but I do enjoy visiting one on one. I enjoy the face to face interaction. I enjoy having friends sit on the couch and just talking. I enjoy visiting in town as I do my errands. I touch people as we approach or leave each other because I learned early on, that might be the only human touch they get that day. I miss the hugs. I miss the handshakes. I miss the pat on the back. I miss the touch in general.
So, I have tried to replace face-to-face interactions with other actions.
WAVE — While driving through town, I make it a point to wave to others now. It doesn’t offend me if they don’t wave back, but it makes me smile when they do. When Benny and I went to Dallas the other day, I waved at every trucker we passed. I got different reactions, but it was worth the smiles or horn honks I got.
SCHEDULE PHONE VISITS, EMAILS & TEXTS – I have started putting reminders on my phone to call shut-ins that I cannot visit anymore. I also want to make an extra effort to talk to my friends that I am used to seeing face to face.
SEND VIRTUAL HUGS – Because I cannot hug people face to face, I have been sending virtual hug GIFs. It isn’t the same as a real hug, but it is the best we can do for now.
WRITE CARDS & LETTERS – Thankfully, our mail is still running. Even without the isolation it is nice to get a card or handwritten note in the mail.
SHARING – If we all think of others, too, it works so much better and we all win. I have a network of friends and family that are helping each other. Each looking for items other people might need or share of our abundance. God has certainly blessed us with others sharing what they found or have!!
SAY THANK YOU – I try to say thank you to those who continue to keep America running during this time. Those who are still working, and more than likely working harder could use encouragement and acknowledgement that their time and efforts are not being overlooked and are appreciated.
God created us with a need for each other. We are social creatures and need that interaction. In my life, I don’t want the pendulum to swing so far the other way that I practice total isolation instead of distancing. When we are frightened or confused, isolation is a natural response. It is a protective measure our brains use to protect us. But total isolation isn’t healthy, for us or our relationships. Being totally cut off from the world is not how God created us.
If we continue to reach out to those within our area of influence, we can be a light for people seeking God in all of this. Many have questions, and though I don’t know much about the virus, I do know the God that has all the answers. If we love in the midst of this crisis, God’s love will spread quicker than the coronavirus.
Hugging can help calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and relieve anxiety. That is because, again, hugging triggers the release of feel-good hormone, oxytocin, that can lower the level of stress hormone and create a calming anti-anxiety effect. For now, I am sending each of you a virtual hug. But consider this is your warning, when this crisis is over and everyone is well again, I WILL BE GIVING BEAR HUGS!!
LORD, in these days of self-distancing and isolation, please continue to lead, guide, and direct us. Give us creative ways to continue to stay in contact with Your people and our loved ones. Guide us through this new stage of social distancing and protecting ourselves and others from the coronavirus. When we start to worry or fret, help us not go into isolation as a protective measure, but reach out to others through digital options. Remind us of those who might not have human interaction if we don’t take the extra step and call or text. Until this is over, may we keep our focus on You and remember that You are bigger than this. You are in control, and this, too, will pass. May we be the light in the darkness others need right now. Be with us as we try to switch to digital means of ministering. Be with those affected and their families who have been affected by the virus already or will in the future. I pray for healing and strength for them in the days to come. Thank You for Sudan. Thank You for our other small communities. Thank You for those workers who show up regardless to keep America running as normal as possible. Give them extra strength, energy, and favor, LORD, for all of their efforts. Thank You that we live in America where we can continue our relationships and friendships. In spite of the crisis, may I wake up thankful and go to bed thankful, LORD. Amen
**Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11
**They help each other and say to their companions, “Be strong!” Isaiah 41:6
**If you can help your neighbor now, don’t say, “Come back tomorrow, and then I’ll help you.” Proverbs 3:28
EACH ONE REACH ONE
ON THE PORCH 