We all need connection

I  am an introvert.  I love being alone.  And the older I get, I have been able to manage my time and schedule to ensure that I have time to be alone.  But I have to be careful.  If I do not make an effort, I can isolate myself from people I love.  And because everyone has such busy schedules, it is easy to lose contact with people, except for following them on social media, which let's face it, is not a real connection with someone.  

And so, I've made a commitment to myself to make sure I reach out to friends to connect.  Usually it is just for coffee or lunch, and sometimes it can take a month or two to find a time that works for everyone.  But I try to be persistent.  Because I have found that connection is necessary for all of us.  We were made to interact with other people, to share our hopes and dreams, as well as our struggles.  

I used to have a hard time being vulnerable.  I never wanted to admit I was afraid of something.  Or I didn't want to admit my life wasn't perfect.  But I've learned that opening up about these things has given me a beautiful support system.  It allows me to know that I am not alone, that everyone is struggling with something.  And it lets me open up to support, love, and encouragement from my friends.  

As I write this, I am also messaging with two friends that I met in my 300-hr TT in Thailand.  They are currently doing a training in Thailand.  They both commented on some of the work I am doing and how they are proud of me.  Today, I needed to hear that.  Some days I get in my head and think I can't do anything right.  And other days, I am really dang proud of myself.  So, it is nice to have people who just seem to say something I need to hear at just the right time.    

So, I encourage you in times were you feel sad or alone to reach out to someone.  Your friends see you for the beautiful, amazing, talented person you are, even when you forget it.  Let other people lift you up.  And in turn, lift them up when they need it.  We are all in this together.  And that makes life so much sweeter.