We have rolled over another year of the calendar. Living through two years of a global pandemic has not been easy for any of us. There are traits we have learned about ourselves we did not know we were capable of, like patience and persistence. None of us anywhere on Earth were prepared to deal with all the rapid changes we continue to make because of the pandemic. And yet we have somehow stayed connected. I feel so strongly and see such immense value in staying connected in 2022.
Staying Connected Through social media
Whether you have one social media account or many, whether you have actually met your social media friends in person or not, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and others, these platforms connect us in valuable ways. I think there are two important questions to ask yourself when using social media.
- Why am I using it?
- How much time do I spend on social media each day?
The answer to question number one should include that it brings some sort of personal value for you. My Foundation growth is directly related to social media and why I list all of the platforms I use on my DiepCJourney blog page as well as the DiepCFoundation page. When the naysayers who are not fans of social media or simply choose not to use it look at me and roll their eyes, I do not judge them at all. Using social media is not for everyone. However, it has proven to be a powerful platform to provide education, why I use it, and the reason it is a valuable tool for me.
Question number two is something I encourage each of you to assess in your own personal lives. I took two weeks off at the beginning of December. With the help of my Facebook admins, I was able to spend some quality time with family and friends. Social media does not mind if you take a short or long break. You can reconnect when you have had some time away from it. The personal, warm hugs I received from family and friends during my visit reminded me nothing replaces sitting together, full eye contact, and sharing time and laughter together.
We have been catapulted into a world of viewing each other through a computer screen or mobile phone video platform. I hear frustrations about this method of staying connected and yet, it keeps us engaged, having important discussions, learning new things, setting goals together, and yes, sharing laughter and special moments.
We bought my 90-year-old Mother a tablet at the end of 2020. It was concerning to our family to see her isolated in her home, unable to get out during the pandemic. She has never owned a computer. We had no idea if this “gift” we gave her would be something she could learn to use or even appreciate. She has been absolutely amazing at discovering how to use it, mainly because my Mom remains curious about things. She is a pro at sending emails. What particularly jazzes her is opening her email to view pictures of her thirteen great-grand children.
Let’s Continue to Stay Connected this Year!
Don’t let go of this ability to stay connected in 2022 because I do not see things changing anytime soon until we get this pandemic more under control. I have even said to a family member or friend when I see them on a computer or phone screen, I am glad I can see you and we can talk. Even though I cannot touch or hug them, think what our lives would be like if we couldn’t at least stay connected, get our work done, and collaborate with colleagues this way?
What I am always grateful for are the connections I have made on the Journey, the Facebook group with over 8.1K global members. It is amazing how we can support each other and even share some moments not related to breast cancer or breast reconstruction. Learning to appreciate what others are going through on this platform continues to inspire and teach me about the human spirit every day.
What significance do you see in staying connected in 2022 and how do you go about doing so? I would love to hear from you and what value this will continue to add for you in the coming year. Happy New Year and I look forward to staying connected with you in 2022.
Hi Terri, as my old computer has been falling apart it’s been more noticeable how much I thrive on contact inline. There’s also the advantage in picking research and reports that make it clear the bad side of what we are experiencing is not the only view of the world going on outside. Good things can and do happen.