If there is one thing COVID revealed, it is how deeply we need one another. In a world of ever-increasing separateness, our souls are crying out for connection. Yet how do we truly connect when we are no longer in close proximity? When fear has become so normalized that we hide in our homes in order to feel safe?

A friend recently wrote a post about true connection, and it struck me deeply. True connection does not rely solely on physical presence. Yes, there is something profoundly nourishing about being with another person—hugging them, looking into their eyes, sharing a smile. But connection itself is far more expansive than proximity.

True connection arises through commonality: shared beliefs, shared values, shared desires, shared interests, shared wounds, and shared paths. It grows simply by spending time together—whether that time is in person or across a screen. Connection is not confined by distance; it is carried by intention, presence, and openness.

In my world, circles are forming everywhere. Sacred circles, healing circles, creative circles, conversation circles. Within them I witness cohesiveness, care, understanding, laughter, joy, and deep healing. These circles are not only beautiful—they are hopeful.

They are hopeful because they exist both locally and globally. We can gather with our neighbors and with people on the other side of the world. I remember the first time my daughter came home from the library and told me she had been speaking with a child in China through something called Yahoo. In that moment, I felt the internet could be something that helps save our world. Of course, it also holds the power to harm when used unconsciously.

Now, with the advent of AI, I sense fear arising within parts of the spiritual community. Yet AI, at its core, is simply a database—a reflection of what we feed it. It is we who shape it. Those of us who desire peace, love, healing, and collective expansion have the opportunity to infuse these values into this evolving technology. That is not something to fear; it is something to steward wisely.

Whenever fear is introduced into your field—by a person, a system, or a narrative—it is worth questioning. Fear is almost always a tool of manipulation and control. Connection, on the other hand, is a doorway to freedom.

And freedom begins when we choose love over fear.