ESCANABA — The intense heat and light generated welcome warmth to all who gathered around it. Talk and levity, among other topics, were the center of the evening. Intermingled within the conversations were future plans for the group. What binds these individuals who gather together is not only friendship, but fellowship as well.

Fellowship can come in many guises, but the center of its essence is on shared values, interests, activities, and experiences. These can be reflected in such examples as spiritual gatherings, campfires, and dinners, among others.

These fellowships are the threads that bind the fragile fabric of life together. By that, I mean that the addition of nonjudgmental, mutual support intertwined with caring empathy enriches our lives and gives us purpose.

For myself, I am especially grateful for the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate a multitude of fellowship groups. Whether we gather once a week, month, or year, it always adds something positive to my life, and it seems like we pick up just where we previously left off.

So, in these trying times, let us not forget our humanity. It is essential that we continue our fellowships safely, and, if not in person, maybe through some form of social media. People need people. Let us watch out for and care for each other. It is what He would want us to do.

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Daniel J. Paul is a retired school administrator. His columns focus on education, old-fashioned family values, relationships, and other topics. To submit comments or find archived columns, go to meaningfuldifferences.net.