Having a sense of belonging is an important human need, just like the need for food and shelter. Feeling that you belong is greatly important in seeing value in life and coping with life situations both good and bad. Some find belonging in a church, some with friends, some with family, some through work and some through social media platforms. Without a sense of belonging, loneliness can be both painful and consuming and our self-worth can plummet.
A sense of belonging and connection to a greater community improves our motivation, happiness and health. To build a sense of belonging requires active effort and practice.
Over the last few weeks, I have experienced community through my family celebrating birthdays and holidays together as well as Church coming not just together on a Sunday but connecting through social activities. I also had the privilege of attending a wedding where the sense of community with everyone working together behind the scenes to make it happen was exceptional. One community that completely stood out for me was a relatively new charity started in 2015 called Rays of Hope, who support the whole family through cancer. From a drop-in centre to a fabulous line-up of holistic weekly activities and a community choir, they have created an environment where people of all ages can flourish through their situation. I left dreaming; Wouldn’t it be great if there were accessible communities of hope in every town and village bringing back that sense of working together and belonging to something that matters, and we enjoy?
To kick start, why not start by saying yes to opportunities to be with others and then throw yourself into whatever the activity is. Let go of any anxieties and worries, what if’s and jump right in to explore the new. For some that may be a book group, a choir, sport, an old hobby or back to college, embarking on a new career, volunteering or believing in a dream you have had. There is so much out there but it might not be totally visible. Feel that sense of adventure and start looking for what you want to be part of it is good to stay connected and you will find the pot of gold once you go looking.
Community is good for the soul.
