Social Distancing

March 17, 2020

Social Distancing: Words that are usually despised by college students. College is a time for building new relationships, breaking away from family, seeking independence. A time for connection, not isolation. For leaving home, not returning to it.

But social distancing doesn’t have to mean isolation.  We can experience intimacy even when far from others. And in some circumstances, we can build new, adult relationships with family members.

It may be tempting to turn to social media to manage isolation, and sometimes social media may help, but it can also exacerbate isolation. There are other ways to stay connected.

During bygone eras, people wrote letters. They wrote by hand and sent them by snail mail.  The process took time and required care and thought.  Receiving a letter was an experience to cherish.

We now have a lot of time on our hands. The virus is slowing down our frenzied way of life. Consider ways of using this time to develop true intimacy with others. Write letters to people you care about. Send them by mail if you can. If you can’t, email them with the full text. Avoid texting except for transactional matters. Call instead.

If you’re experiencing an unsafe situation where you are living or staying, please call me at 857-222-6601. Leave a message if I’m not available. I will call you back. I can help you find resources. You are not alone. You may have to stand 6 feet away, but I’ve got your back.

This blog post originally appeared on the Carthage College website. It has been republished with permission.