I consider myself a people person. Those who know me would agree without hesitation. I’m lucky to have amazing people who bring value and meaning into my life. I hope this is the same for you.

Relationships are the heartbeat of our lives. Building them is one of my gifts and at the core of my purpose.  But the truth? I haven’t always honored that.

Loneliness in the Midst of Independence

At 24, I packed up and moved across Canada. Those first few years on my own were rough. Independence comes at a price:

• Thousands of miles away from family and friends

• Dating apps going nowhere

• Social life on life support

• Weekend grocery store runs becoming the closest thing to “social interaction”

   

If you’re single and live on your own, you probably know what I mean.

My extroverted nature still craved connection, but reaching out felt exhausting. Over time, I withdrew even more—avoiding calls, backing out of plans, and letting loneliness and shame keep me stuck in isolation.

Rediscovering Connection Where You Are

That season of life was difficult and emotionally challenging—but not as hopeless as it felt.

• Family: Phone calls and visits with my parents grew richer.

• Friends: Their encouragement helped me through some of my lowest points.

• Community: Church gave me a sense of belonging.

• Work: Some colleagues became close friends, while others simply made each day lighter.

• Everyday interactions: A cashier remembering my order, a familiar face in a gym class, or a quick hello from a neighbor—they all made a difference.

Connection isn’t always found in big, dramatic moments. Sometimes, it’s built in the quiet, ordinary ones.

Why Relationships Matter

I can’t go back and change how I handled those lonely years. But I can remind myself—and you—that relationships, whether big or small, are the heartbeat of our lives.

They:

• Lift us up when we’re down

• Challenge us to grow

• Make us feel understood when we need it most

• Reflect the best parts of who we are

Relationships matter because they remind us that belonging is essential & provides the connection we all need.

Getting Back On The Path

Relationships are central to our purpose. This week, take 10–15 minutes to connect with someone intentionally—not just a quick text or social media like.

• Call a friend, meet for coffee, or share a heartfelt conversation over lunch.

• During that time, listen fully: ask open-ended questions, give your full attention, and resist the urge to multitask.

• Afterward, reflect on how the interaction made you feel. Consider jotting down a note of gratitude to yourself—or even sending a quick message of thanks to them.

Small, purposeful connections like these strengthen bonds and remind us that human connection is both simple and powerful.