After so much isolation, much of humanity is on a collective search for connection.

It’s both heartrending and empowering to consider that the people around us are likely hungry for something as simple as a good chat. Rather than overcomplicating our approaches to meeting our neighbors, there’s a basic question we can ask ourselves: what do the people around me need?

Maybe your neighbor needs someone to watch the Olympics with and share a pizza. Perhaps a good-faith interaction on a tricky topic would deepen a bond with that family member. Could learning more about the specific struggles of the poor in your city shift your approach to volunteering, financial giving, or ministry?

With a little bit of curiosity, a heart of compassion, and a dash of courage, you just might find yourself meeting people right where they are. And you’ll likely find some of the connection that your tired heart longs for, too.