Some time ago I was listening to an interview with the author, educator, and entrepreneur Adam Robinson. He spoke about a startling discovery he had made. One day he typed into Google, "How can I learn…" — just to see what would pop up, to see what people are searching for.

You've probably noticed how Google suggests queries as you type, based on the most popular searches related to your words. Robinson found that the number one suggested completion was: "How can I learn English?" That makes sense. Then Spanish. Then to sing. Then to code. But what was most astonishing was the fifth most popular search: How can I learn to love myself? Millions and millions of people have typed that query. Millions of people are quietly wondering — am I worthy of being loved?

Robinson suggested there is a loneliness epidemic in our country. And social media is not helping — it may well be making it worse.

I don't know. But I do know there is a tremendous need for human connection. A tremendous need for people willing to reach out to others with love, hope, and compassion.

I think about those millions of people typing that question into a search bar — how can I learn to love myself? — and my heart goes out to them. What they are really asking is whether they are worth loving at all. The answer, grounded in the image of God in every human soul, is an unqualified yes. And sometimes the most powerful way that answer gets delivered is through another person.

I wonder if there are people in your life who need to know that someone loves them — that you love them. I wonder how you might be a beacon of hope and light for those around you.

Prayer: God of Grace, I pray today especially for those who are struggling to love themselves. Remind each and every one of us that you have created us in your own image. May we know your deep and abiding love for us — even now. Amen.

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