Community in the Time of Coronavirus

In the South African tradition of Ubuntu, “I am, because we are.” We are human only through the humanity of others. That is to say, we exist because we are part of the larger community of humankind, and the actions of each of us affects the larger community as a whole. It came to global attention when Archbishop Desmond Tutu made Ubuntu a key component of his Truth and Reconciliation Commission following the end of apartheid in 1991, and it couldn’t be more relevant today.

This to me, this is what community is all about. Community, human connection is what I call one of the four building block of happiness (along with mindfulness, movement and nutrition) and our sense of happiness is inextricably tied to our sense of belonging. 

In the U.S., we put great emphasis on individuality, and in the building of our country, it served us well. We were independent, self reliant, strong and assertive and that’s what allowed us to break ties with the mother country. And in the ensuing years, those that immigrated here had the same pioneering spirit. But even during our country’s (R)evolution, we recognized the need for community, to work together towards a common goal.

During these extraordinary times, individuality has come to the forefront. Maskers vs. anti-maskers, government shut-down vs open for business, “us” against “them,” it’s all about our individual rights vs the needs of society as a whole.

So, while I recognize the strength of an individualist society, I also know the importance of community, and I believe there is room for both simultaneously. You can be an individual, while at the same time, build your community.

The coronavirus has made gathering with community exceptionally difficult, with the need for social distancing and the risks of gathering in groups. Yet, the need for community is the strongest it’s ever been. We need all those things that community offers such as stress reduction, emotional support, shared resources and encouragement. How do we continue to build community while still practicing social distancing?

Enter Zoom. Honestly, I can’t imagine what our ancestors went through during the Spanish Flu or any other pandemic, before technology came on the scene. I mean I know that masks are uncomfortable, but at least I have my Zoom, so just quit complaining! Through video meetings, I have kept up with my meditation peeps, my book club buddies, my spiritual family, my Rotary club and my kids and grandkids. It’s certainly no substitute for the real thing and I miss a good, nurturing hug, but all that will return eventually.

For right now, your well-being and the well-being of all those around you relies on keeping your physical distance. Don’t let that interfere with being with others. Use the technologies we have available to connect. When you need the support of community, reach out through any of the tools we have available. Your happiness depends on it.