As I was walking early one recent morning, a group of 20 or so cyclists passed me going in the opposite direction.  I was looking at them, busy counting how many they numbered, when one cyclist in the middle of the pack waved to me and yelled out “Good Morning!” (Darn! His greeting surprised me and made me lose count!  😄)

I can’t tell you exactly what I felt in that moment, but I can tell you that it was a rejuvenating spark.  I felt seen; my presence validated.  Up until that point, I didn’t feel like anything was missing.  I was in my own internal world. That greeting pulled me out of my cocoon and brought me into consciousness of the larger world that we all share… and it brought me joy.

This got me thinking about how easy it is to stay wrapped up in our own little bubble, especially right now.  Recently, I heard the term Physical Distancing.  I think it more accurately describes what we’re all trying to do.  Unfortunately, it’s been labeled “Social”Distancing but ends up feeling more like Social Isolation.  When passing other walkers and trying to avoid each other’s “space,” it appears to me that some even avoid eye contact for fear that the virus might be caught with just an exchanged glance!

Having experienced firsthand how good it feels to be seen and acknowledged, I’ve started greeting each person I meet with a cheery “Good Morning!”  even when they are wearing headphones or earbuds, and not looking my way.  I’m noticing that many people react much the same way I did when I was unexpectedly greeted by the biker.  Most of them come to life and a smile suddenly appears on their faces.  With so many people having great difficulty finding anything to smile about these days, I consider this a victory!  Since we are all in this together, it’s important to treasure the human behind each encounter.  These quick, simple connections can bring a bit of joy to the giver as well as the receiver in a very real way… at a time when it is sorely needed indeed!

~Zanne
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