The Power of Community: Connecting in Today’s World

In today’s fast-paced world, feeling disconnected has become all too common—even when we're surrounded by people. With the rush of work, family, events, and daily responsibilities, it’s easy to feel like we’re on a never-ending merry-go-round, leaving little time to connect with others or truly be present.

Ironically, despite living in a hyper-connected world, many people are feeling lonelier than ever. With constant notifications, messages, and the pressure of keeping up, it’s overwhelming. While technology helps us stay in touch, it often takes the place of real, face-to-face interactions. More busyness, less real connection.

But here's the truth: humans are designed for community. We thrive when we are together, and without meaningful relationships, we struggle. True community goes beyond merely living close to one another. It's about creating deep, trusting relationships, sharing life’s moments, and supporting each other. Being part of a community means knowing you’re not alone. There's a group of people who genuinely care, support, and stand by you through both the highs and the lows.

Research supports the incredible importance of community. According to a study by the Mental Health Foundation, people with strong social relationships have a 50% increased chance of living longer. In contrast, loneliness has the same effect on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day!! The American Psychological Association also shares that social isolation is a key predictor of poor mental and physical health, further reinforcing the need for strong community bonds.

I know personally the value of these connections. When I had my first child, Olivia, in January 2020, just a few months later, the world went into lockdown. Living in Melbourne, Australia we experienced one of the longest lockdowns in the world. The absence of close family and friends hit hard, and I quickly realized how essential connection is for our mental and emotional well-being. I missed the simple support of my mum, sisters, and friends. It was during that time that I understood how vital it is to feel supported, especially in tough times.

The effects of this isolation have only increased. A recent BBC article highlighted how the pandemic caused a significant rise in loneliness, particularly among young people. The National Institute on Aging has also linked isolation to increased risks of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.

In today’s world, more than ever, it’s important to slow down and focus on real relationships. While it’s easy to be caught up in the chaos of everyday life, we need to prioritize connection. Here’s how we can start:

• Find a church: A welcoming community where you can connect and build relationships that center on faith.
• Join a sport or gym: Physical activity is a great way to bond and build relationships.
• Start a hobby: Hobbies are perfect for finding like-minded individuals with shared interests. A friend start archery- I thought that was a nice one!
• Be involved in your children's school community: Connecting with other parents helps create lasting bonds for both you and your child.
• Volunteer locally: Helping others builds a sense of connection and purpose, while meeting people who share similar values.
• Attend community events: Local events, fairs, and meet-ups are excellent ways to meet new people and build community ties.
• Host a regular get-together: Whether it’s a monthly dinner, coffee date, or playdate for the kids, gathering people together fosters a sense of belonging.
• Join a book club: Reading and discussing books with others is a great way to form new friendships while engaging your mind.

But most importantly, encourage your children to value relationships, too. We must model the importance of community for them, teaching them how to nurture healthy relationships. By doing so, we give them the gift of meaningful connections that will support them throughout their lives.

Let’s be intentional about creating the connections we crave. As life moves faster, let’s slow down and invest in the relationships that truly matter. This is how we can build the strong, supportive communities that everyone needs.

With love,
Steph xx

Hebrews 10:24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.