According to estimates, the number of worldwide social media users reached 1.96 billion in 2016 and is expected to grow to some 2.5 billion by 2018 (Statista).
Does that mean we are becoming a generation made up of superficial connections as opposed to authentic, vulnerable relationships? It is no surprise that social media sites can create a false sense of connection but many people may not realize they also cause overload and bring stress into our lives.
Genuine Community
We were meant to live life in “real” community. We need others in face to face relationships to become our best. “We were never created to live in isolation; we were created to share the significant moments of our lives with other people.” (Mike Breen)
Fnding real community can be challenging for a number of reasons. The sheer business of our lives can become an obstacle to genuine community. We spend so much time and emotional energy living Monday to Friday that our relational tank can have very little left at the end of the week.
“People are longing to rediscover true community. We have had enough of loneliness, independence, and competition.” Jean Vanier
People are longing to rediscover true community. We have had enough of loneliness, independence, and competition. Community is not something that we randomly stumble into but rather something that is created. It requires that we are willing to allow ourselves to enter into the process of authenticity and vulnerability with others and that in itself can be daunting for some. I would love to hear about some of your ideas about community and how you have found deeper connections. Please leave your comments below.