Keeping Connections
Once a month I treasure my coffee time with a group of lovely ladies. We became friends through our workplace and have stayed connected even though we do not all continue to work together. We were brought together out of a love for children and teaching but have stayed connected for so many more reasons. We have seen each other go through many seasons, celebrations, shared struggles, heartbreak and loss. We’ve sought wisdom from each other, those who have travelled paths before us. We’ve been present as a listening ear without judgement. We’ve laughed, cried and laughed some more. Whenever we get together, my heart is lifted.
So what do you want to do when faced with hard days and uncertain times? Share with your friends. But what happens when we can’t be with our friends? We learn to connect in different ways.
Yesterday, one of our friends set up a Zoom meeting for us all to meet online. Soon all five of our faces were displayed on the screen. It was a little awkward at first navigating this new normal of communication. But soon we were chatting away, with our coffee or tea in hand. Almost 90 minutes later I emerged from my office, encouraged by our connection. It’s still not the same as if we had met in person, being able to give each other a hug, but it worked. Seeing their smiles, laughing together and sharing concerns, it just felt good, like we could hold onto what fills us. Because right now we are all grieving so many losses in this time, it’s comforting to know there are some things that will not change…the comfort of friendship.
Nikki Bergstresser 