12 Comments
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Alicia Dara's avatar

Love this piece, Catherine! I've still got some "weak ties" from my hometown that I left 30 years ago, and it always shocks and delights me that they're still around. Also, I thought of you immediately when I read that same NYT article... when I read the headline I even thought you might have been one of the writers they profiled!

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Catherine Hiller's avatar

I shoulda been included, I agree!

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Fran's avatar

Excellent piece!

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Catherine Hiller's avatar

Thanks, Fran?

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Catherine Hiller's avatar

Didn’t mean the question mark!

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Mark Thompson's avatar

It’s true that I felt socially adrift and isolated during the pandemic. Even though I didn’t live alone, was calling my mom regularly, and had zoom meetings with the kids, I really missed those connections with people throughout the community. I especially remember our first walk in town; back then everyone was wearing masks outdoors, and we ran into someone we were not especially close to, and yet I was so delighted to see him.

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Catherine Hiller's avatar

I remember that encounter well! We were thrilled!

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Jackie Shabbot's avatar

I’ve lived in Greenwich Village for over 50 years. My weak ties are a blessing and many of them offer surprisingly intimate moments. Small talk becomes meaningful connections that lift my spirits.

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Melissa Knox's avatar

I agree--weak ties are stronger than you'd think!

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Catherine Hiller's avatar

So glad to find you here, Melissa!

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easleyart@gmail.com's avatar

Hugs...(o:

t

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Hillary Short's avatar

I love this article. I have never heard this term before. Thank you for sharing it. I am going to share with our community.

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