Socially Distanced... This Can't Be Good!
Gloria Calhoun, M.Ed.
Due
to the global Coronavirus pandemic, social distancing has become the way that
we interact with each other; from six feet away and in smaller groups. While I
understand why its recommended, I have a personal concern about the detrimental
effects this could have on society as we scramble to embrace a new normal.
New
technology has affected how we relate to people. Going into a store
to purchase essential items is frightening. Everyone is avoiding touching each
other. Masks are hiding the smiles which have typically been the universal way
to communicate. We are now being encouraged
more than ever to learn new ways to communicate and interact with one another,
not through in person contact, but digitally.
Many are resorting to using social media and video conferencing as a way
to stay connected. Unfortunately,
a computer screen will never be able to replace a touch
on the hand or a pat on the back. Despite the benefits of digital
advancement, it is vital to preserve human touch in order for us truly to
thrive.
Did you know that babies who are daily deprived of touch can die? If the mother, father, or any other adult in the absence of the parent doesn’t hug, kiss, hold and cuddle the baby for long enough, their development and mental health can be affected and ultimately, their lives! This should prove how vital touch is for human beings.
Physical contact distinguishes humans from other animals.
Shoots, even domestic animals thrive interaction from a human. I own a
cockatiel who is a very social animal. Its
been a while since I really interacted with him and it shows. The less interaction, the more aggressive he
gets. I was sitting at my computer the other day when my bird decided to exit
his cage and fly towards me. I took off running because I hate it when he flies over my head. After running frantically away from my precious feather baby, I later
figured out that he wasn’t trying to attack me, but he was simply trying to
come perch on my shoulder. He was longing for my attention. With
the social distance requirement orders that are in place, sometimes I feel like
Mango the cockatiel. I want to break the
rules and proceed to embrace a friend or shake someone’s hand. Why? Because humans
long for physical touch. It is proven
that the absence of physical bonding and healthy attachments may result in
lifelong emotional disturbances.
My hope for the future after this evil COVID-19 is over and done is that we do not lose
our sense of humanity. I pray that people will get connected or reconnect to our creator. A lot of times when people go through trying times, the first instinct is to distance themselves from God. My fear is that people will continue to distance
themselves from each other which could send many into a spiral of depression and social deprivation. However, by remaining connected to our Lord it will help to overcome any all things because He conquered death, hell and the grave just for us. Continue to pray and keep that heavenly connection. Its where our help comes from!
