We are happily experiencing this summer of reconnection and the welcomed familiarity that comes with the resurgence of noisy restaurants, crowded airports, and packed stadiums. There is often a collective re-energized feeling in the summer months, but this summer seems hypercharged with excitement. And yet – amidst all the excitement, we find that our vast reemergence may magnify the connective tissue that keeps our world together. Our world feels familiar again, but is the world equipped to handle us? 

The pandemic forced changes across many industries, several of which are still struggling to regain their footing. There are supply chain disruptions, restaurants that are short-staffed, record wait times, and much more. I find myself stepping back and thinking, “How are things really working?” as well as wondering, “How did they ever work?” We are ready to progress forward, but it is evident that this period of pandemic-induced discovery has affected both our internal and external worlds. 

The lasting effects of the pandemic are undeniable. As businesses and individuals, we all pivoted in some form or other to accommodate our new realities. These pivotal shifts have magnified the differences between where we were and who we are now. It is a lot to grapple with, and for me, it represents the long-hauler impact of a virus I did not physically experience but emotionally endures. With new variants on the rise, we must continue to be diligent as we work our way through uncharted territories, grateful for those who have been vaccinated and concerned for those who are unable, or who have not been yet. 

The truth is, we may not have all the solutions, but I think it is critical to focus on our interconnectedness. To build back our momentum, we need to better understand just how interdependent we are. We are reliant on each other in more ways than we have the time to think about. 

To keep ourselves healthy, fed, and socially connected, one of the most powerful indicators of well-being we need to recognize is the power of community. That is what Generation W is all about, bringing people together to make our world a kinder, more accepting, more equitable place for all. So, as we walk, run, or leap into the final month of summer, I encourage us all to think about just how interconnected we are. Whether we realize it or not, we hold a place in each other’s lives. Yes, I am going there, the great Diana Ross song lyric, …..reach out and touch somebody’s hand and make this world a better place if you can.