Struggling Friendships
For many, this Covid-19 pandemic has put a strain on relationships of all sorts. Intentional distance from those we love and care about, in an effort to keep them and ourselves safe, has brought on many different challenges. One of those challenges for some has been trying to maintain friendships. With busy lives and hectic schedules, friendships were already hard enough pre-Covid. Being stuck in our homes, limited on what we can do and in some cases, having to take on even more responsibility has truly made friendships a lot harder.
In the spirit of overcoming all difficult situations, today I want to offer you some creative and safe ways to still enjoy and maintain your friendships while practicing safe distance and keeping yourself and the ones you love well. When you are intentional about ensuring the safety of all as much as you can, you will find that you have more peace and less worry, while still engaging in needed social interactions.
Zoom nights/parties/showers and more: Whether it’s girls night with a twist or a zoom shower or party, set up your space so that you are comfortable. Invite your friends and family to log on and have a great time of communication, zoom style games (online bingo, triva etc.) and being mask free in a safe way with the ones you love, from the comfort of each of your own homes.
Drive through events. We are seeing more and more drive through events these days. Decorate an outside space, and have the ones you love, mask up, drive up, snap a picture and leave a gift if they choose. This is a perfect way to limit time spent around others to less than 15min. and maintain CDC social distancing guidelines. Plus… if you are anything like me, it takes away the need for awkward baby or wedding showing games.
Happy days Picnic - tell your friends to grab their kids and meet you at the park. each family can bring their own blanket, food and other picnic necessities and find a space a local park and place each family 8 to 10ft part. Enjoy the time being close, but not so close.
Hiking and Other outdoor activities - Plan a meet up with your friends that involves an outdoor activity where mask can be worn/ and or social distancing is possible.
While engaging in the activities above are not exactly the same as what we may have done before Covid, they are ways that we can fulfill the natural longing to be apart. We were created to be in relationships and our interactions with others are important to us living fulfilling lives. It is my hope that you take this time to refocus your attention on the things that matter to you the most, openly communicate your struggles with those you love, and seek help when everyday adjustments don’t seem to be working. This pandemic has definitely made the struggle real, but the goal is to overcome every mental encounter.
