Dialogue San Diego: Social [Dialogue] Distancing

Sunday, March 29, 2020

Social [Dialogue] Distancing

Social Distancing is a health care term applied to certain actions to stop or slow down the spread of a highly contagious disease. I believe that many of us have become accustomed to this term and its effects on our lives. We may live in safe at home countries, states or communities and have been instructed in the appropriate spacing between self and others.

Recently, while walking in my neighborhood, I noticed that people were practicing this aspect of social distancing. I also became aware that when I greeted people, some responded with surprise and others seemed to ignore me - no recognition; no acknowledgement; no nod, wave or words.

I tried to recall: was this lack of response as prevalent before COVID-19?

Are you distancing yourself from others?
(Photo Credit: Social Distancing Can't Last Forever,
Vox - Getty Images)

My dialogue mentor mentioned that the New Zealand prime minister, Jacinda Ardern, makes a distinction when talking about the need to create distance: she uses the term physical distancing rather than social distancing. Jacinda's point is well taken in that we are being asked to physically distance ourselves from others... not necessarily, socially.

I wondered: as Americans, do we hear and respond literally to the words we hear? That is, when we hear the words "social distancing," have we begun to break the social ties with others?

How can you reconnect with loved ones and friends?
(Photo Credit: Now Moments #Love #Connection #Legacy,
Big Picture, Fine Focus)

It seems that we need social contact now more than ever! In fact, some people have taken to video conferencing with friends and church groups: Virtual Happy Hours, Virtual College Roommate Reunions, and live streaming religious services are a few examples.

So, a question for all of us: in this uncertain time where we potentially could be physically separated for weeks, how might we build -- or rebuild -- the social connections that could heal our divisions?

Do we have the energy and desire to connect?
(Photo Credit: Why Connection is Essential for Living a Wholehearted Life,
MatthewsPlace.com)

Creating a space for dialogue in this period of Social [Physical] Distancing may be one way to bring us together. We might be transformed as families, friends, and a nation if we could honor the 6 feet physical spacing that COVID-19 requires... and at the same time... use dialogue to replace any chasm that separates us. In essence, the mutation that occurs is not in the virus but in us: we begin to practice Social [Dialogue] Distancing when we come across dis-eases that separate us!

I am interested in hearing your perspective: what are you thinking, feeling or experiencing?

Peace and health to you and your loved ones!