The Toronto Dingos hold a weekly “Wednesday Waffle” video check-in to stay connected and share life updates within the group. This tradition, initiated by the club’s president and coach, Justin Robertson, stemmed from a tragic event in 2018 when the team lost a member to suicide shortly after his return.
The “Wednesday Waffle” serves as a platform for members to engage and prevent such incidents from reoccurring. This practice highlights the importance of consistent and meaningful connections in combating feelings of isolation, especially as many individuals struggle to maintain friendships in today’s fast-paced society.
Statistics Canada’s study reveals a concerning trend of declining face-to-face interactions among Canadians over the years. The demands of modern lifestyles often lead to neglecting personal relationships, as observed by Mike Bocian, a member of the Toronto Dingos, whose friendships have dwindled since focusing on his career and family.
The impact of busyness on social connections is evident, with Canadians feeling more time-constrained in recent years, especially post-COVID-19. This shift has led to a more structured approach to socializing, with individuals prioritizing planned activities over spontaneous interactions.
Kimberley Brownlee, a renowned philosopher, emphasizes the diminishing quality of modern friendships, noting that true connections require time, effort, and vulnerability. Parveer Brar, a clinical counselor, echoes this sentiment, highlighting the distinction between surface-level interactions and deep, meaningful relationships.
Understanding the value of genuine friendships, Brar emphasizes the emotional support and authenticity that healthy relationships offer. Maintaining a diverse social network, as suggested by Brownlee, contributes to overall well-being by fostering varied interactions across different contexts and identities.
To cultivate new connections, Brar recommends joining groups or attending regular activities to initiate casual conversations that can evolve into lasting friendships. For the Toronto Dingos, the structured nature of their “Wednesday Waffle” check-ins has facilitated open discussions, leading to increased comfort and camaraderie among members.
In today’s fast-paced world, investing time and effort in building and sustaining friendships is crucial. Small gestures of interest and ongoing engagement are key in nurturing meaningful connections that provide support, understanding, and acceptance without pretense.