I don’t care how poor a man is; if he has family, he’s rich. ~M*A*S*H
“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” ~Dr Seuss
It’s a funny thing when you realize there has been something missing from your life. Something that’s obvious, but has gone unnoticed. Meaningful connections, and a circle of supportive, kind, loving people, are important in this crazy world.
Most of the time I smile my way through social situations and try to play my part, constantly worrying about other people’s perceptions and my own insecurities. I try to remember to laugh and nod at all the right times, while I’m worrying if the clothes I’m wearing are fashionable enough, or if someone will point out my shoes don’t quite match my outfit.
People who really matter in your life wont care about these things.
Over the past weekend I flew up north to visit family. I re-connected with a lot of my extended family that I haven’t seen in a long time and I hadn’t realized how much I missed seeing them. I also met some new adopted family, who instantly made me feel as if we’d known each other for years.
It’s a great feeling to be excited to share your thoughts and opinions with someone else. I probably rambled on too long, and over-shared, but I never felt judgment or condemnation. It was refreshing to have conversation I was invested in, instead of just waiting for my turn to make noise.
…and so I would like to say thank you to the people who reminded me what I’ve been missing. Thank you for making me feel welcomed. Thank you for going out of your way to let me know you care.
It’s a basic human need to feel loved and accepted. We all need to feel like someone cares about us and that our opinions matter. Maybe if we all stopped trying to force connections with people we could actually forge some. Try to find some new people to share yourself with.
(Photo by: me)
