A Tiny Gift, a Big Reminder: Finding Connection in a Disconnected World

One of the disappointments of traveling these days is how little people talk to each other anymore. Most are buried in their phones or staring straight ahead, carefully avoiding eye contact like we were told to do during COVID. I miss the random conversations I used to have before the explosion of “smart” phones—when strangers shared stories, and the big world felt smaller, friendlier, and more exciting.

Recently, at the American Airlines lounge in Phoenix, I was blessed with one of those rare and unexpected conversations that reminded me of what traveling used to be like. I was getting a drink when the server asked where I was headed. I told her I was flying to San Jose to speak, and she began asking about my work. When she learned I spent much of my time speaking on suicide prevention and trauma, she shared her own story—how she and her son had been deeply traumatized by an ex-husband who eventually went to jail.

But she was determined. She refused to let her pain define her, even starting a non-profit to teach children life skills. Then, just as quickly as she had shared her story, she turned to leave—only to pause and say, “Wait a minute.”

When she returned, she handed me the little Jesus in the photo. “Jesus loves you. Never forget it.” It’s about the size of a thumb, but no doubt, holds a heart as big as a mountain.

Humble and profound words from a single mom who had been through so much.

What a precious gift—a reminder that whatever happens to us, we always have a choice in how we respond. We can let pain and sorrow bury us, or we can use them as fuel to rebuild. Even better, we can turn outward and help others, finding meaning in our own healing.

It doesn’t have to be complicated. A kind word to a stranger. A small gift. An unexpected phone call to an old friend. Sometimes, that’s all it takes to impact someone’s life. Selfless reminders that we’re not alone are powerful medicine. Connectedness is the glue that keeps us sane.

I wish I could hand one to each of you, but consider this tiny Jesus my gift to you. Jesus loves you, and I love you. We are called to love our enemies—surely, we can love each other.