I am not really one to worry about the future; I figure today has enough problems of its own. But in this AI-generated world in which we live today, life can be disorienting. It is getting more and more difficult to figure out what is “real” or not. As if social media didn’t make the illusion of a perfect life a problem already, now there are apps that superficially fix every problem, mistake, or blip on the map for people all over the world.
How do we know what is real?
Ironically enough, despite being more digitally connected than ever, people are reporting the highest rates of loneliness on record. This isn’t just in our area; this is a global issue. However, I believe the solution is simple.
Each summer we host a “Camp Key Wedowee” at the lake for our kids, their cousins, and their friends. We usually have anywhere from 10-20 kids ranging in age from 8 years old to 14 years old. That’s a pretty wide age range to find a common activity or interest for them all to engage, BUT we hit the goldmine this past summer with a simple box of conversation cards. The questions were anything from simple preferences to deep philosophical thoughts. I thought these teens and preteens would think it a lame “mom” game, but when I tell you we had to use a stuffed dog toy as the talking turn object…they were HUNGRY to share their thoughts.
I have thought a lot about this since then, and in my humble opinion, there is a universal truth in their eagerness to answer those questions among friends and strangers: we all just want to be known. Everyone you see wants to be seen, truly seen, not just superficially. The AI fixes of the social media world don’t satisfy a lonely soul. The superficial “perfection” we put out to the world doesn’t actually do anything to soothe our ache for more. We want real connection.
It is a running joke that the real reason I became a doctor is because I am nosey. When you’re a doctor, you can ask people almost anything. Of course, then you have to be able to keep their secrets. But in recent years, I have realized what an honor it is to have that privilege of knowing someone. Sometimes, as their physician, I know more about a person than the one they share a bed with every night. I get the great honor of truly knowing someone and loving them through whatever crisis is challenging them.
Here is some good news for you if you are feeling lonely or imperfect or discouraged during this season of “New Year, New You”. You are already seen. You are already fully known. (“Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” Luke 12: 6-7) And despite all your flaws and imperfections, you are deeply loved. You are so loved that God sent Jesus to take all your punishment and make you right with Him. Peace overflowing is yours for the taking!
If you know Him already and have some concept of how loved you truly are, then my challenge as we enter 2026 for you is this: see someone else. Be honest, be open, be vulnerable. Not online, not digitally, but with the next person you meet face to face. Share honestly, love boldly, ask questions and really listen to the answers. Your story matters, your experiences will help someone else get through a hard day. But the only way we can really combat the loneliness epidemic is to be real.
So in 2026, let’s get real.
And never forget: Jesus loves you and so do I!
Dr. Allison Key
