Just Call

Bill Bowick | Mar 25, 2020

I received a note from a friend last week. In commenting on Covid-19 he said “The last time I was isolated was over 60 years ago when I spent an extended period in the thinking chair for trying to white-wash the family cat.” What a wonderful world we enjoy when someone’s last memory of isolation is sixty years old. And what a terrible shock to experience isolation to the extent that is expected of us now.

But it doesn’t have to be as painful as the thinking chair. It doesn’t have to feel like ostracism. It doesn’t have to bring loneliness. Isolating yourself from Covid-19 does not really mean social distancing. That’s what social media are for. And those who don’t have a computer or a cell phone or a Facebook account, still have an old-fashioned telephone. Call them.

Last week, I called a friend who was recovering from surgery. He seemed to appreciate the “How are you doing” call but, more, he was glad of a chance to speak with someone . . . anyone, even me. And, of course, I enjoyed speaking with him though I hadn’t done it for months. Since then, I’ve tried to make a couple of calls a day to people with whom I haven’t spoken for a while. Every call is appreciated and, not surprisingly, enjoyable.

So, call a friend. If you think you don’t have any, call and find out. Or you may just luck onto someone who wants a call. Remember, for many of us, telemarketers are the only ones we hear from. Don’t save people from Covid-19 just to die of loneliness. “Call a friend” is more than a game show option.