RUOK? Day: Wake Up, Life Is Not Perfect Online

For the past three years, I’ve been in a long-distance relationship while my boyfriend has been away on two war deployments in Ukraine. Last week, we were on FaceTime when a fighter jet flew over his safe house. As he looked out the window, tears rolled down my face, not knowing if this would be the last time I’d ever see him, even through a screen.

Two days later, a bomb was dropped. Twenty-four innocent people were killed. He was lucky enough to get away safe. But can you even imagine? The families torn apart. The lives ended in an instant. The loved ones left behind to grieve.

And yet here we are, scrolling, comparing, obsessing over likes and filters. Society is so consumed with the perfect body, the perfect photo, the perfect life online. But wake up, there’s more to life.

What truly matters? Health. Love. Family. Friendship. The people who check in on you. Sharing a meal with someone you care about.

RUOK? Day is a reminder that behind the highlight reels, behind the “I’m fine” smiles, people are carrying battles you can’t see. Some are fighting wars. Some are battling loss, loneliness, homelessness, heartbreak. Everyone has a story.

A simple “Are you OK?” could be the thing that makes someone feel seen, heard, and valued.

This year, let’s put down the phone, look up, and check in with the people who matter. Because no amount of likes will ever compare to real connection. #RUOK #EVERYDAYMATTERS