Loneliness tells us lies and strips us of our humanity. It makes up stories about who we are and the world around us. Human connection shines light into this darkness.
I recently listened to a podcast where the host interviewed a Navy SEAL. He shared something that has stuck with me. “Jumping from a plane at 30,000 feet into a gun fight was far easier than overcoming the fear of being vulnerable about my emotions with the people who cared about me the most.”
It’s both ridiculous and completely relatable. Honest, vulnerable human connection can bring joy and healing, yet it’s the source of our biggest fears. I encourage you not to freeze or falter in fear. Instead, seize every opportunity to join in conversation and service. You never know what you’ll learn and the friendships you’ll make.
You’ll read in this newsletter how we’re fighting for more human connection on all fronts. We’re planting caring volunteers throughout Tampa Bay in all types of spaces, eager to be a friend to those who need it. People like “Grandpa” Sessions, who serves in the classroom watching for students like Destiny who are having a rough day, or volunteers like Sharon, who gives every veteran who comes into the VA a friendly smile and a helping hand, and Senior Disaster Support volunteers who create opportunities for neighbors to meet neighbors.
Friends, the need has never been greater. The challenges we face in today’s world call for more helpers, more doers, and more hearts willing to step up. If you’ve ever thought about volunteering, now is the time. It’s our fellow humans who will get us through the toughest of times.
-Robin Ingles, CEO