Maybe you all thought I was kidding when I suggested going grocery shopping together. I can assure you I was not.
I firmly believe that, with or without children, there is a large, often unrecognized, benefit found in participating in everyday activities in a group or social atmosphere. As a society, we often get together for movies, clubs, sporting events, concerts, meals out, birthdays, and the occasional house party. These events often require planning, and either occur outside of our usual living spaces or in a living space that has been prepared for the occasion. It is unfortunate that we rarely get together simply to enjoy each others company with no other purpose. And, even more rare, are the occasions where we get together to accomplish a simply menial task in a manner that is made more enjoyable by the company of others.
So… I’m serious. Let’s make plans. This week.
Pick a day this week. Any day will do. Then invite me to your home. Or invite yourself into my home. Or request company for a menial or otherwise isolated task — chores, shopping, a long drive, TV watching. Or offer your company for a menial task.
If you hate it, you never have to do it again.
Go on. Give it a shot.