on connection & community

I was looking back at what I shared in this space a year ago and I must admit, today feels different. Even though we are solidly in the depths of winter and, while there has been a little more sun this week, the grey skies continue to reign supreme.

And yet, instead of wanting to tuck into my bed the minute darkness falls, I find myself feeling upbeat and energized. This is a most unusual mid-January feeling for me and, admittedly, I'm caught off guard.

Upon reflection, two things have made a difference this week ... connected conversations and being in community with others.

At the start of the week, I had the privilege of speaking to a group of ladies who selected Walking Forward for their monthly book club. I got to chat about the writing process and how it felt to publish my personal stories. They asked about what it was like recording the audiobook and we all had a giggle when I said I was a Mum of twins as if they hadn't read the book! We talked about habits and routines and how things evolve with the ebb and flow of life. And we reflected on how things change from generation to generation.

It was a beautiful evening full of engaged, curious, thought-provoking and kind conversation.

Later in the week, I got together with a group of ladies I volunteer with. I had wanted to organize something in December but was too overwhelmed by the busyness of the season and deferred to January. I am so glad I did. We went to an escape room and then to a pub for a drink after. At the end of the night, the bill had long since been paid and yet no one was in a hurry to leave.

I felt a connection to the volunteer community I am part of in a way that no meeting could ever foster.

The truth is I've always struggled in January. In the past, it has felt like a month to endure and get through. But this week I was reminded of the power of being around other people to pull me forward. To pull me out of hermit mode. To laugh and to smile.

I am tucking this lesson away for next January and reminding myself that I need other people! Even when it feels like too much to put myself out there.

Tell me, what are you up to this weekend? How can you connect with someone else?

Walking forward with gratitude,

Sarah