Connection, Relationships, and Happiness

“Ground yourself” - This expression reminds me of connecting with the earth and the soil.  My recent mini-gardening experiences have made me think about the benefits of these connections.  

A newly planted flower is not yet sturdy.  But, as it gets water, fertilizer, and sun, its root becomes stronger and it displays beautiful colors.  This sounds like a metaphor of ourselves: we are the plant, just grounded. As we learn and apply self-care tools such as good nutrition, exercise, and meditation, we empower ourselves and grow.  We become keenly aware of our strength and beauty. We connect with ourselves. When we are connected with ourselves, we feel peaceful.

What about our connections with others?

Yes, indeed, human connection is the key to happiness. A 30 year Harvard study concluded, “....people who are more socially connected to family, to friends, to community are happier, they’re physically healthier and they live longer than people who are less well connected.”  Thus, it makes sense the building relationships is important in our lives, especially in the education field. Students will become happy by making connections with teachers and each other in their learning community.  

Do these connections have to be with humans?  

Here is one example of a connection with a non-human: I remember the movie Cast Away starring Tom Hanks.  In an extremely isolated situation, the main character, Chuck, makes a connection with a volleyball, Wilson.  Although Wilson is just a ball, he brings Chuck emotions and sanity. The foundation for Chuck’s heroic survival is clear: his relationship with Wilson.  Yes, you can make connections with things other than human beings if you want to.

I go outside to water my flowers and think of what our plants do.  The green provides us oxygen while we provide carbon dioxide. We depend on each other.  Without our relationship, both of us couldn’t survive on our planet. When I recognize this connection, I feel grateful.  It is important for me to keep reminding myself of my gratitude for our connection with plants. When I feel down from the daily hustle, I can look at the small plants. With a few deep breaths, I ground myself at the moment. When I am connected with myself, I am ready to connect with others. Being connected is a beautiful feeling. It leads to a sense of belonging and comfort in the community.  

Extending connections in as many directions as possible gives us a more global view of peace, gratitude, and happiness.  All children and adults deserve to know that.