Finding Warmth in Community

I’ve never been a winter person. I don’t like the cold, the wind, the ice. And even when we have a respite from the worst weather, I don’t like how darkness comes so early. I struggle with how many of my family, friends, and neighbors seem to hibernate — waiting out this time, being more isolated, going out less, just doing less. As soon as the season starts, I begin looking forward to spring: seeing flowers peek out from the snow and familiar folks dotting the streets and saying “hi” after a long absence.

Why, however, must we remain locked away, waiting for the warmth of spring?

Why can’t we brace ourselves against the cold, step out of isolation, and connect with each other?

Why can’t we build and be a part of a community even in the cold?

Studies show that isolation and disconnection lead to an array of negative health consequences. In fact, the outgoing Surgeon General released a report earlier this month entitled, My Parting Prescription for America, in which he states:

“Community is a powerful source of life satisfaction and life expectancy. It’s where we know each other, help each other, and find purpose in contributing to each other’s lives. These core pillars of community—relationships, service, and purpose—are powerful drivers of fulfillment. They can also significantly influence health outcomes, including premature mortality, heart disease, depression, and anxiety. Community also gives us strength and resilience when facing the big challenges and countless paper cuts that come with moving through the world.“

He concludes the report by saying, “Through my work over two terms as Surgeon General, I saw that the answer to ‘What’s missing?’ is simple, yet profound: community. The loss of community has become one of the defining challenges of our time. In response, we need a fundamental shift in how we build and prioritize community.”

I am in awe of the many who, in all seasons and weather, step forward, into our circle, to be more active in our shared community. Whether driving in to drop off items, offering their time in our Center, or sharing more about us with those in their network, many from all walks of life stand with us, the team at A Wider Circle, building and strengthening community.

For all who have done so this past year or this past month, thank you. You inspire us, fuel us, and make us whole.

And for those less familiar with our work, those with just a cursory knowledge of us and our commitment to community, I invite you to engage — to know us, help us, and contribute to others alongside us.

Thankfully, the weather is warming up and the days are getting longer. Still, perhaps my remedy to the cold and dark winter is not waiting for spring to come but opening the doors and inviting all who enter to join our community.

Our door is open, won’t you come in?

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Amy Javaid is A Wider Circle’s President & CEO. Read Amy’s full bio.