I am two degrees of separation from The Chilean Miners, thanks to my sister-in-law Joanie. While in Jerusalem, Israel last week leading a tour for the World Affairs Council of Philadelphia (yes, she has an impressive job), Joanie made a lasting impression of this special group of Chileans. The Chileans were special guests of Israel and were staying in the same hotel as Joanie and the World Affairs Council group; they shared an elevator ride in which the group of charismatic men professed their adoration and love for my beautiful sister-in-law. It is a small world, after all, and she is beautiful.
What I love about this story the most (other than my claim to fame via my two degrees of separation) is the beauty of human connection that transcends languages, cultures and lives. We too often forget that the people and international breaking stories that we see on the news are real people. I love nothing more than authentic human connection, for it reminds me of the common fundamental similarities that connects the billions of us that inhabit this planet.
Our lives are meant to connect, intersect and weave into the lives of others, but how often do we actually allow this to happen? We are too busy, to selfish, too closed-off, too focused, and too stressed to tap into the incredible tapestry of humanity. The more people you allow yourself to love and be loved by, the more you will love yourself and be filled with joyful energy. Soon enough you will realize that you are connected to the world in ways you never imagined possible, and it is in this way that our small voices can be heard through loud echos.