It doesn’t feel good to feel alone, particularly when you’re going through a rough patch! Yesterday, I met with Amy Orozco, who’s a wonderful writer and the editor of Carpenteria Magazine. As we sat talking, our conversation shifted to how important a sense of community is — having people we know will be there for us.
In times gone by, we had our families near us. They were there to join in our celebrations, and to lend us strength and support in our sorrows. With our mobile societies, though, we often find ourselves a long way from family. In addition, we might be part of a dysfunctional family, whose members are not emotionally safe to turn to in times of trouble.
Amy and I talked about how important it can be for each of us to create our own community of warm, caring people. It can feel very lonely to have a sense that you’re traveling through your life in isolation. Just a couple close friends can make a world of difference!
Even if it feels scary to reach out to others, I really recommend it. Many times, the people we reach out to, are also feeling alone and lonely. It can be harder if you’re a very private person. I do understand that, but even then, I encourage you to take a chance. Invite someone to meet for coffee or tea, go for a walk, or join you for a movie or concert. It doesn’t matter what you do. It just matters that you make that first move!
Developing community is a process. It doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s so worth the effort. Amy is a great friend, and a wonderful part of my community! I can trust her to be there with understanding and support if I’m struggling, to be an energetic cheerleader when I’m working toward a goal, and to celebrate my successes.
Don’t you deserve to have someone like that in your corner? Of course you do! Look around. Choose someone who seems interesting and approachable. Start getting to know them. Let them get to know you. Soon you will be able to celebrate the start of your own community!
Until next time,
Linda