Greetings Horton-heads!

Guess what? I got married last weekend!!!

One more Hortonhead! That’s Mrs. Shawna Marie Hortonhead to you. It was a celebration like no other. All the people I love and cherish were in one place together. There was such an outpouring of love and affection, you could breathe it in.  

My dear friend, Scotty Fifer (yup, Fifer Scissors) wrote a hilarious speech at my request, and boy did he roast me good. I know it was all done out of love, and everyone got some good belly laughing in (a bonus Ab workout too.) One of the things Scott touched on was the importance of community, and how studies are now showing that having community actually extends your life.

On that note... how are you creating community in your life?

Do you have one?

Are you a loner?

Are your children the only community you have?

I'm not saying there is anything wrong with that, but having a real social life and close friendships with people outside of your family is critical for your happiness, and longevity.

With the advent of the Internet and social media, studies are showing that we are becoming less social, instead of more so.  We’re communicating through devices and not in person as much, because of convenience, and people’s fears of actual face-to-face conversations. Young folks, and many adults nowadays (do I sound old or what?) have their heads down looking at a smartphone instead of interacting with the people around them. We're building “on-line” communities, but losing hometown committees in the 21st century.    

Did you know human connection is almost as important as breathing, eating, and sleeping? Seriously! Humans need connection with other humans. It keeps us happy, healthy and alive. Think about a tiny baby. If that baby doesn't get love, touch and connection it can not thrive and grow in a healthy way.

You can receive this connection from being part of a community. I have met amazing people in my life, and have created lifelong friendships with so many different kinds of people - most of them were at my wedding. I feel inspired every day by my community. It feeds me, adds to my happiness, and nurtures my well-being. And the extra big bonus; it’s extending my life!

When I was a kid, I hung out with my friends, ran around the neighborhood, rode my bike, played hoop, played catch, threw the Frisbee for hours, and participated in community functions, and activities. I know we have responsibilities, and the daily grind can get the better of us, but life can go south real quick if we don't have rock solid friends and family around to keep things interesting.

So, shut off your computer or laptop, stop texting on your phone, and use it to call the people you want to start living large with. Build a face-to-face community, and cut back on your face-in-a-device community. It will add years to your life.

From Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Sawyer Horton