Life is full of ups and downs, joys and sorrows, good times and times of hardship - and one of the very best ways to navigate those things is with people.
That’s why I believe that community is honestly one of the very best ways to bring more joy into your life. Human beings weren’t created to live in isolation, we need each other. For the practical things in life like a cup of sugar when you’re out or babysitting swaps, and for the emotional support when we suffer loss or are going through something tough, and to celebrate with us when a new baby is born or we get a new job or a new house or because our toddler finally got the hang of using the potty.
Doing life with others isn’t always easy. People are people, with our own idiosyncrasies and weird habits and opinions that don’t always match - but just because something is hard doesn’t mean it is bad.
And I know that when your children are young, community can feel out of reach. Maybe you’re in a new town or you’ve had to step away from friendships, but the effort you put in will reward you ten-fold when you find your people.
Keep looking, keep trying, keep reaching out, keep connecting. Build friendships online that can transfer to offline life. Join a bible study or church or a workout group or an interest group for gardening/reading/sewing/whatever suits your fancy. Your people are out there - if you. haven’t found them yet, don’t lose hope.