Ripples of Presence

There are moments, especially during the holidays, when I pause and reflect on what these celebrations truly mean. In that reflection, I notice how many people struggle with a sense of belonging—even when, on paper, there is somewhere to belong. Family and friend gatherings, social obligations, Santa deadlines, Elf lists to complete, Amazon add-ons… the frenzy of the season pulls us in every direction. Yet, in all the running around, in the surplus of imposed commitments meant to make us feel part of something, what are we truly seeking?

Recent research has shown a striking paradox: in a world where global connection is easier than ever—through the internet, social media, and constant digital contact—loneliness is on the rise. We are connected virtually, but often at the cost of real, present human connection. And during the holidays, this paradox becomes painfully visible.

Take the Christmas table, for example. Dinner is served, lights twinkle, food steams on plates, and yet across the table, to the right and to the left, I see companions engrossed in their phones. Scrolling through the latest stories, liking posts, watching videos—while no one is truly talking or looking at each other with curiosity. The room is full, yet somehow empty.

It reminds me of the childhood game: “Knock, knock. Who’s there?” It’s playful, simple, innocent—but the question lingers in a deeper, almost unsettling way: Who is really there? Who do we show up for, and who shows up for us?

Perhaps the challenge of the season isn’t just about completing tasks, checking boxes, or showing up at gatherings. Perhaps it is about presence—being truly present for ourselves and for others. Listening without distraction, speaking without pretense, and noticing the small gestures that say, I see you. You matter.

In the rush, the noise, and the digital glow, maybe what we really need is not another gift, another task, or another event—but the courage to be truly present, and to invite those around us to do the same. To look up from our screens, to meet each other with curiosity, and to answer the knock at the door not just with words, but with presence: I am here. You are not alone.