Today I felt called to write about the sacredness of connection, for those across the world that feel most isolated and overwhelmed by the effects of the past year.

At such times when so many of us may feel isolated due to the barriers that divide us – masks, fear, concern, uncertainty… At such times when the idea of isolation can swell to life much like a tangible thing, weighing down on our hearts… At such times, it is important to relax into our inner hearts. To breathe deeply, and remember we’re not alone.

And so, I am using this opportunity to meditate together on the sacredness of connection.

It is when you gaze off into the vastness of the ocean, and realize you are one with its vastness. It is gazing off into the sparkling, fathomless depth of the nightsky, and realize that the infinity of stars and galaxies and multiverses stretching endlessly beyond the capture of your imagination, are one with you, for they are the furnace that helped blaze the stardust in your blood into creation, the stardust in your veins.

It is walking down a park pathway on Sunday afternoon and watching fellow strangers, friends, acquaintances even now, rising above this challenge that the world is undergoing at this time. It is learning to smile and laugh and find joy in the smallest things, in the smallest activities with their friends, despite everything. Finding comfort and deep appreciation of each gesture, each word and moment spent with loved ones… feeling seen. Feeling heard. Feeling understood. Isn’t that the most fulfilling thing in the world?

It is strolling through a forest, surrounded by the underbrush and millions of lifeforms – butterflies, birds, animals, insects, ants – all contributing to the microcosm that is the forest’s shelter. And you are one with it too.

There is connection everywhere.

And perhaps although the circumstances of 2021 may lower a veil of illusion – that we are disconnected – the truth is we have always been one, and will continue to be one. The only thing that isolates us, is our perception. Our beliefs. Our fears. Our judgements. Our assumptions. The walls we put up around ourselves, between each other – emotional, mental, spiritual.

But if we dare to remember, time and time again, that our power lies with ourselves and no other, that we can break down those walls whenever we want, that the world is always within reach, then we return to our sense of connection, of oneness.

Message that friend, love. Call your grandmother and ask how she’s doing. Video-call your loved ones. Stay connected to those dear to your heart, in whatever safe ways you can.

You’re not alone. We’re all in this together.