Connections: Is it Important or is it an Illusion that it’s Important?

By Ruth Victor-Jackson, AMFT

“We’re born to connect and as long as we live, we never stop needing connection”, Peter Lovenheim.

Many questions come to mind as we live in our own perspectives of what life is or what life should be. One question is, “Why are connections important”? Connections are formed throughout relationships, either good ones, or bad ones. Is it the foundation of these connections that form how important they are to our growth in life, or do we need them to grow? Could it be an illusion to view one’s connection as beneficial just because one has arrived by fortune and fame attained or the degrees and accolades achieved? No matter where you are in life, making a connection could be the most important contribution provided, especially to those who are emotionally wounded in some way because of this journey called life.

I often wonder what my life would be like had I not made a connection with someone who has been ignored by the masses. Have you ever gotten bored when someone else is talking to you about their feelings, and you tune them out but credit yourself by being available? Connections are real and vital to growing especially in the helping professions. I believe a person can disillusion themselves by thinking what they provide to another person is real and authentic when their authenticity is solely based on what is important to them and not to those in need. I see connections as safety, security, friendships, and a mutual respect for one’s idea’s, beliefs, and a sense of self.

For example, while working with clients acknowledging why they show up is essential to the therapeutic process. Everyone has a voice. Pain expressed is liberating for the soul. Thoughts shared is a priceless exchange. I value the worth of a connection by the sensitivity and empathic listening that holds the entire framework to create and develop. Therefore, my ability to form connections as a therapist is the foundation of my personal and professional existence in this field of study, mental health or as I like to say, “Mental Awareness”. As for me it’s growth.

By Ruth Victor – Jackson, MPA, M.S.