In today’s society, we so often push off physical and real relationships and let them fade behind the façade of tweets and snapchats. We let our technological world rule our everyday world and the value of quality time with real people slowly becomes less and less of a priority. We forget how good it feels to be in a room surrounded by loved friends and family and hearing the chatter and laughter that fills the room. We forget how comforting a warm embrace feels. We forget the intimacy of a dinner date with close friends. These experiences are less common because we’ve become content with high snap streaks and the occasional “imy” text messages defining the importance of a relationship.

Despite this culture shift in value, there is still an art to showing up. In reality, your life could be a mess. Show up anyways. You could have had an awful day, but show up anyways. You could be tired and annoyed, but show up anyways. We show up because we know that these forgotten joys are in desperate need of revival. A funny snapchat filter with a heart or a “hope you’re okay!” tweet does not beat the genuine feel of a bright smile or genuine hug after a rough day.

When you put away the distractions, you really begin to understand the true meaning of quality time. It's good for the soul and provides a satisfactory feeling that lasts, rather than temporary contentment.

Social media outlets do not define relationships, but showing up for those on your team does. The true intimacy of a friendship can be seen in the way you don't feel the need to hide the messy or hide the broken. Life is not picture perfect, but you show up for your people because those people would show up for you.

In a season where family and friendships are emphasized and cherished, spend extra time and focus on who’s in front of you. Show up for those people you care about and spread a little love- it an idea rare in action, yet significant in meaning.