During times of stress and uncertainty, it's common for us to tighten up, withdraw, and close ourselves off from the world.
It's a form of protection.
If it's rest that you need, do take that time. But when you feel a little stronger, please gather your courage and come back to reconnect with the rest of us.
We need you. Your talents and spirit are important.
And whenever you need a reminder, turn to these 5 simple quotes so you know you're never truly alone:
“I am because we are. We all belong to each other.”
— Desmond Tutu (Ubuntu philosophy)
Whether you feel it or not, you are an important part of the interconnected whole.
“A deep sense of love and belonging is an irreducible need of all people.”
— Brené Brown
The sense of belonging is a fundamental human need. You aren't weak for wanting connection. The desire to reach out is a sign of healing.
“We are like islands in the sea, separate on the surface but connected in the deep.”
— William James
You may look different or feel different from other people, but know that underneath, we are all the same. We all want: safety, love, connection, peace. In fundamental ways, we are more the alike than we are different.
“True belonging doesn’t require you to change who you are; it requires you to be who you are.”
— Brené Brown
Don't be afraid to show your unique beauty to the world. We have a desperate need for you.
“We don’t have to look for belonging. We belong from the moment we arrive.”
— Thich Nhat Hanh
This is your home. You've always belonged here. Remember that.
Image: Viephoto Studio, CC BY 3.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0>, via Wikimedia Commons