The Gift of Reconnection

Opportunities for reconnection come in a variety of forms. Yesterday I had the opportunity to attend the funeral of a long-time friend's father. I wanted to support this friend even though I hadn't seen her in a long time. You might ask why this particular friend and not another. Why not make one of my regular excuses of "I wasn't close to the family" or "it's quite a drive" or "the roads may not be that good". The answer is I don't really know. But I am trying to listen better to those inner promptings and I did feel it was important to reconnect with this special friend. 

Funerals certainly can be opportunities for reconnection. For me, it was one of reconnecting to a childhood friend who I rarely see but feel deeply connected to. And yes, Instagram and Facebook can be catalysts for connection - a way to find and reconnect with the kindred spirits of our lives' journeys.

This particular friend grew up in the same farming community, was part of the same church youth group, and was very connected to my mother through her work. And so there is that bond of knowing, like we saw each other yesterday. When she saw that I had shown up for her, there was a big, long hug, sharing of memories, and of course, the tears. What a gift of light and healing for both of us!

This was also an experience of reconnection to my parents. It was the first time I was back in the church, this time sitting next to my brother in prayer, since my mother's funeral. A time to remember the gifts of faith and love that my parents were for us and for so many in this community.

While taking the risk to reconnect is not always possible and may well seem impossible, it can lead to healing and strengthening of relationships. In a world so connected and so disconnected at the same time, we so desperately need to reconnect, to build and rebuild our relationships for ourselves and for the whole of our communities. We need to turn the lights on and make the light brighter by forging strong connections.

Today's thought: Who can I reconnect to, to build a better relationship?