If anything, the pandemic has given us a strong reminder that people matter and that our time is precious.
As time passes, and as we as a world go through so much more, I think that we need to expand this idea to encompass all of our interactions with each other. Each interaction connects us to another human who has feelings – someone who will then connect with other humans in this world of ours.
Being intentional about our interactions and thoughtful of others as a rule is a way of being that truly affects people on the receiving end of the interaction. It has the added benefit of influencing others to be more thoughtful of the people in their own lives.
If you’ve been thinking about building stronger relationships in your life, it also helps to pause and dig deeper to sort through any conflicted feelings about existing relationships. One tool that helps with this is taking the time to journal about these feelings. To find simple journaling prompts that help with this, see my post “3 weekly journaling prompts – this week’s theme: relationships”.
It sounds obvious but I think it is worth reminding ourselves that authentic connection is important. As we go through the whirlwinds of our days, stopping to take a moment to truly acknowledge and listen to the person we’re talking to in any moment can make all the difference.
Here are some lovely quotes from across time for inspiration on connecting more:
“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.”
― Brené Brown
“The world is so empty if one thinks only of mountains, rivers & cities; but to know someone who thinks & feels with us, & who, though distant, is close to us in spirit, this makes the earth for us an inhabited garden.”
― Goethe
“That was a memorable day to me, for it made great changes in me. But it is the same with any life. Imagine one selected day struck out of it, and think how different its course would have been. Pause you who read this, and think for a moment of the long chain of iron or gold, of thorns or flowers, that would never have bound you, but for the formation of the first link on one memorable day.”
― Charles Dickens
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Lovely quotes and a great reminder for us all, especially during these trying times. Thanks for the inspiration!
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Thanks for stopping by! Have a great day.
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Yes. Friends and family are what matters the most, as do our interactions with complete strangers and acquaintances. Every encounter changes us, and them, in some way – big or small. Being intentionally kind and empathetic will have the best outcome for both sides.
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So true – thanks for stopping by!
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Sure. I enjoy your posts.
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People and connections are a top priority for me.
About two years ago, my sister, who was also my best friend, told me that she no longer had time for me or my family. It caused me a great deal of pain, and to be honest, it still does. After several failed attempts to repair our relationship, I moved forward the best I could.
I do my best to make everyone I interact with feel valued. I never want to make anyone feel they way that she made me feel.
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That’s tough and must be very difficult. I hope your sister reaches out to you. I agree, making people feel valued is very important.
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Thanks. Glad to stumble upon this timely and important reminder. More so during this pandemic era for us to be even more determined and intentional in carving out time and space to connect with those who matter most to us (but keeping Covid-safe of course!). Thanks again for this post. Appreciate!!
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Glad you enjoyed the post. Thanks for stopping by and for commenting!
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