Locals gathered last week for a Harmony Day function run by local group, Voices for Harmony. This year’s focus was harmony’s impact on mental health. Much thought was provoked by the guest speaker and subsequent discussion and questions.
With such complex issues, positive change is going to take many factors, not just one, but having said that I do believe that each of us belonging to meaningful community is an enriching way of growing mental health. I sorrowfully see increased isolation and loneliness in our community which obviously negatively impacts mental health. Aligned with this dynamic is a seeming decrease in the number of available communities to belong to.
Thankfully, community life and opportunity are still out there. I intimately know of one such – your local church. A place where people can belong and, in safety, discuss and grow beliefs together. Personally – my family and I have a local church that is our main place of community and the benefits to each of us is off the charts. Column space does not allow me to go into the many details I could, pertaining to the great outcomes we’ve each experienced due to sharing life’s journey with a diverse and delightful group of others.
A rich bible verse reads “Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!” Coming in low and humble, appreciating the value and insight of others and being teachable while contributing ourselves to community life is a guarantee to turning the tide on negative mental health outcomes. I encourage us to pay a local church a visit during this upcoming Easter season. It may just be the positive change we need!
