Human Connection

When Professor David Branscome signs off the Zoom session for his Ancient Mythology course at Florida State University, he typically says something like "Have a great weekend" or "See you next time." Students often respond with "Thank you" or "You, too" as they sign off as well, but earlier this month, Branscome heard an unexpected response: One student answered, "I love you." Surprised but without missing a beat, Branscome replied, "I love you, too." 

Several days later, students in the 180-person class gathered on the class texting platform GroupMe to plan an "I love you" chain, replacing the typical "Thank you" with "I love you" during their next Zoom class. Unfazed, Branscome responded to each student with "I love you, too" or "I love you all."  And now the "I love you" chain is expected at the close of each class, and Branscome reports that another one of his online classes has adopted the chain as well.

Check out this 15-second TikTok for a glimpse of the FSU "I Love You" chain: Bye, Love You.

In an era of isolation and self-quarantine, the response is a telling reminder that we all need human connection and kindness. As one student in Branscome's class said, most of the 180 students leave their cameras off during class, and the layers of blank screens can feel lonely at times. The "I love you" chain has reminded students that they can pull together in unique ways even in the midst of a global pandemic.

"I think that this is one of the nice things about the online environment," Branscome said. "Strangely being apart brings us closer together -- at least in this environment."

More than 2.3 million people have viewed the TikTok recording of the close of Branscome's class, another reminder that our longing for human connection runs deep. As Christians, we should be bringing Christ's love to the world in real and tangible ways every day. Remember John 15:12: My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you

And listen to these words in Ecclesiastes 4:9-12:

Two are better than one,

because they have a good return for their labor:

If either of them falls down,

one can help the other up.

But pity anyone who falls

and has no one to help them up.

Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm.

But how can one keep warm alone?

Though one may be overpowered,

two can defend themselves.

A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

What will you do today to share Christ's love with those around you?

May the love of Christ be a comfort to you this week.

Jennie