We all need authentic connection in our lives.
In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of genuine human connection cannot be overstated.
Author and speaker Molly Bice Jackson passionately argues that authentic connection is essential for true joy and a lifeline out of sorrow. Her new book, The Commodity of Connection, delves into this topic, offering practical tools for fostering deeper connections.
The Essence of Authentic Connection
Molly emphasized that while networking and social media connections are common, they often lack the depth and genuineness of authentic connections. She explained, “It’s the genuineness, the authenticity that is deep. That is what bolsters us.” Authentic connection, according to Molly, is about being genuine and real, which she believes saved her life during her darkest moments.
A Personal Journey
Molly shared a poignant story about losing her daughter, Lucy, who tragically choked on an apple at the age of two. This devastating event left her feeling hopeless, but it was the people who truly saw and heard her that helped her survive. “They witnessed my grief, and it’s what saved me. It helped me put one foot in front of the other,” she recalled.
The Gratitude Chain
One of Molly’s favorite tools for fostering connection is the Gratitude Chain. She encouraged people to take a simple item they are grateful for and trace its journey, recognizing all the individuals involved in its creation. This practice highlights our interconnectedness and fosters a sense of gratitude. “It’s all part of something greater,” she explained.
Speaking the Unspeakable
Molly advocated for the importance of expressing both generous thoughts and difficult emotions. She believes that sharing what feels unspeakable can create deeper connections. “‘My son is addicted to drugs’… or ‘I’m feeling so down.’ ‘I don’t feel comfortable in my body today.’ Those are scary things to say in everyday conversations,” she noted. However, with the right person at the right time, these conversations can be transformative.
The Role of a Witness
Healing, according to Molly, requires a witness. She emphasized that being present for someone without trying to fix or judge them is crucial. “They are simply being there and saying, I see you and I’m holding space for you,” she said. This act of witnessing helps individuals process their emotions and feel less isolated.
Molly’s book, ‘The Commodity of Connection,’ offers valuable tools and practices for cultivating these connections.
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