Catholic Priorities

 Sometimes, it seems as though the only issues discussed are:

• Abortion
• Death Penalty

But, a column I read today on Front Page brought another issue - one that is, perhaps, even more important, as it affects so many.

Depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts are hitting sky-high levels at present, in great part due to COVID isolation.

Are you reaching out to those in need of human contact?

Look. I get it. Many of us are not all that touchy-feely. Many of us are introverts by nature, and have been less affected by the lockdowns.

But, even the introverts are getting cabin fever. Can you imagine just how dreadful these restrictions on interaction must be for the extroverts?

As a Catholic, it is my duty to do all that I can to preserve human life. Off the top of my head, I can name at least 1/2 dozen people I am well acquainted with who may be suffering the emotional/mental effects of the Black Hole of Human Interaction. You can probably do the same.

Well, then - MAKE that list. Structure it so you manage to reach out, by phone or video-chat, with every one of them. Use that contact to gauge just how hungry they are for these interactions, and schedule some follow-up to that contact.

Text won't do. The ones most affected have a HUMAN-hunger. They need the old-fashioned (or the best we have) ways of communicating - voice/video-chat. The technologies are there:

• Zoom - for individual, 1-to-1 contacts, it's perfect. It even allows you to share websites, videos, and other online links, in active, real-time use.  It's easy to use, even for the less tech-y types. Mastery takes a few tries, but still has potential. Works on a number of platforms, and is super-easy to use on tablets and phones.
• Google Duo - it replaced Google Hangouts. I've used it, it does have a learning curve, you need a Google account, but you can call those who do not. You can make video calls, phone calls, or even message. Works on computers, tablets, and mobile phones.
• Facetime - Apple-only devices, but super easy to use, and capitalizes on the ease of use on the iPad/iPhone. Like most Mac apps, it is seamless to use, so may be better for Mac users to begin exploring the technology of videoconferencing.
• Skype - this was one of the early videochat apps (all platforms, home and mobile). Zoom capitalized on the COVID crisis, but many have experience with this app, and may be already on their mobile device.
• See here for other alternatives.

Do it. Today.

For some people, this can change their life. Or, save it.