Going Deeper in Relationships: What the Los Angeles Fires Can Teach Us
Going Deeper, Not Wider: Lessons from Los Angeles and the Fires
As the wildfires rage through parts of Los Angeles, we're reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of what truly matters. In moments like these, when our attention is pulled toward crisis and chaos, the value of deep, meaningful relationships comes into sharp focus.
When disaster strikes, it’s not about how many people you know. It’s about who you can truly rely on—the ones who show up for you, no questions asked. The wildfires remind us to prioritize going deeper in our connections rather than wider.
What Does It Mean to Go Deeper?
In a world obsessed with "more"—more followers, more friends, more connections—it's easy to mistake breadth for strength. But just as a shallow root system can’t support a tree in strong winds, surface-level relationships crumble under pressure.
Going deeper means:
Spending intentional time with the people who matter most.
Having vulnerable conversations that build trust and understanding.
Showing up consistently—not just when it's convenient, but when it's truly needed.
This concept applies to every area of life: your friendships, your family, your business, and even your community.
The Fires in Los Angeles: A Wake-Up Call
The fires sweeping across Los Angeles are a stark metaphor for how quickly things can change. They’ve displaced families, destroyed homes, and left communities scrambling for safety.
But amid the devastation, stories of connection and resilience emerge. Neighbors offering shelter. Strangers donating essentials. Families pulling together to face uncertainty. These are moments of depth—where human connection overcomes the chaos.
We can take a cue from this. When life feels overwhelming, instead of trying to do it all or connect with everyone, focus on nurturing the relationships and communities that will sustain you.
How to Build Deeper Connections
Here are some actionable ways to go deeper in your relationships:
Be Present: Whether it’s with a friend, a partner, or a colleague, give them your undivided attention. Put down your phone and truly listen.
Check In: Reach out to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while—not with an agenda, but simply to ask how they’re doing.
Show Up When It Matters: Whether it’s supporting a friend during a tough time or being a reliable business partner, your consistency will speak volumes.
Invest in Community: Look for ways to deepen your involvement in the groups and causes that align with your values.
Express Gratitude: Let people know how much they mean to you. Sometimes, a simple “thank you” can deepen a bond.
A Call to Action
As Los Angeles faces this challenging moment, let it be a reminder for all of us: Life is unpredictable. The relationships we nurture today will carry us through the uncertainties of tomorrow.
Take a moment to reflect: Are you spreading yourself too thin, or are you cultivating roots that will hold firm when the winds come?
Let’s take a lesson from what’s happening around us. Let’s focus on depth, not breadth—in our relationships, in our communities, and in how we live our lives.
Together, we can create connections that are unshakable, even in the face of life’s wildfires.
If this resonates with you, share it with someone who might need this reminder today. And if you’re in Los Angeles or affected by the fires, know that my thoughts are with you. Stay safe and take care of one another.
