Those who know me well know how much I LOVE to laugh and smile. I also love to talk with people and even engage strangers in conversations. I love the happiness I feel of a simple smile reciprocated when I make eye contact anywhere I go.
I have missed these simple exchanges because of wearing my mask. I find myself passing familiar faces without any acknowledgment because I am not certain it is who I think and I almost have to yell “Hello!” to make sure they can hear me. It’s sadly crazy how much I have relied on my voice to express a greeting when I have the ability to simply wave.
I was recently at the store and a kind older gentleman was trying to boost some spirits to those waiting in line by telling some silly grocery jokes. As I left I was so heartbroken that he could not see how big I was smiling under my mask. I couldn’t reach out to touch him and acknowledge his presence. I found myself purposely laughing louder than the joke was worth and then I yelled a big “thank you” in hopes he would understand my appreciation in his effort to make me smile.
I have also missed my ability to reach and hug someone as a greeting. It seems so foreign to stand at eachother and offer an elbow bump or wave. I feel this goes against my nature and I still have to explain myself even though the circumstances are self explanatory.
Brené Brown said “Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” “We are hardwired to connect to others…and without it there is suffering.”
I encourage everyone to still connect with someone everyday. Force yourself to make eye contact in public and send a wave even if it ends up not being the person you thought was under their mask. Don’t let the new public physical touch boundaries invade your home. Still hug, kiss, wrestle, tickle and laugh with your kids. Don’t lose the habit of smiling everywhere you go just because it can’t be seen. Keep offering the simple polite phrases like “hello”, “thank you”, “excuse me” and “goodbye” even if it can’t be heard. Show communication through your eyes and keep you ears open to hear the expressions of others. I know when I connect with others and they connect with me I do feel a sense of purpose.