Sense of Community

I'm not sure about the rest of you, but when it is cold out, I retreat within myself, treating the subzero temperatures as a reason to hibernate and retract into oblivion. I hardly remember to do the things that make me happy, much less remembering to do the things I require for survival, such as brushing my hair and doing laundry. Writing typically gives me a reason to keep waking up, it allows me to work and wind my thoughts into palpable and tangible strings that I can shift into sentences. One other thing that really seems to help me stay grounded in the love I share for myself and others is planning get togethers, small or large, to connect with the friends and family that lift me up and make me happy.

Recently, the weather was terrible out, and one of my close friends was visiting out of state for work. The group of us decided to jump onto our computers and Skype while we played group video games and watched videos, joking and laughing from deep in our chests. In the midst of the get together, I sat in awe of these people I was joking and laughing with, who I loved so deeply and who loved me back in return. It reminded me how important it is to have someone in the world out there who can relate to you, on any level. Whether that person is your sister, brother, therapist, grandmother, you deserve to feel safe with someone in your life to share your genuine thoughts, emotions and laughter with.

It is crucial to remember even in the coldest months of the frozen over Midwest fields that you belong to a community of people that are better and happier because you exist and are a part of their lives. You are the reason that people choose to go to events, the reason people wake up and smile, and the reason that people have lived better and happier days. You shine from within like a star, and like a star, you draw the light out from those around you. And that my friend, is such a beautiful and precious thing.

Pay attention to that light within you this week, and the light you draw from those around you.

Love,

Court