We need each other.

Lately I have been watching space exploration-themed films and for me, the most jarring aspect of space is the isolation. Maybe it's my extroverted nature talking, but the loneliness of floating around in the vast darkness of outer space seems like a nightmare.

Perhaps I am in the minority in this view. As a result of COVID-19, we adjusted to isolation. Our cultural norms now make light of canceling plans at the last minute in favour of staying home on the sofa with a screening service and food delivery. Ghosting is a thing.

Unfortunately the byproducts of increased isolation include loneliness, which is a well-documented threat to our health, and a reduced ability to navigate interpersonal challenges. We are overwhelmed by the prospect of a conflict, and quickly unmoored by our differences. In the quest to escape discomfort, we simply avoid difficult conversations, or denigrate the people with whom we disagree. Our relationships become shallow, immature, and transactional.

We are not served by avoiding the hard work of human relationships. Avoidance is not a strategy. Conflict is inevitable, and we need to be able to manage it if we want to live in society with others (even a new society on the planet Mars!)

The alternative - pure isolation - is terrifying.