The words for 2020 were quarantine, isolation, and distance. These words mean alone, separate, and unconnected. I understand that these were thought to be needed to control the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus, but they came with a mental, emotional, and psychological toll. Loneliness, depression, anxiety, and possibly addiction could be the words for 2021.

One of my goals for 2021 is to make positive connections with people in every way possible. There is a variety of ways this could happen, from social events to private conversations over coffee. Decide now, make a plan, find a way, and open up your heart to people this coming year.

God created Adam, and he said it was not good for man to be alone. Humans are social creatures, and being isolated is not good in the eyes of the one who made us. This virus might hurt people’s bodies, but being alone can hurt people’s souls. Sure, take any and all precautions to stay healthy but don’t limit your health to only your physical body.

You need people. I need people. We need each other.