SEEKING CONNECTION
In our Tuesday Self-Care Group we explored the places we go when we seek connection. Being in connection starts with loving oneself and being in connection with oneself. Brené Brown says,
“True belonging only happens when we present our authentic, imperfect selves to the world. Our sense of belonging can never be greater than our level of self-acceptance.”
Belonging
As a Raregiver, you might feel like you don't belong because the world is geared toward Neurotypical people, and your Rare child is in the minority. Our community exists for YOU – you belong here.
It may also be true that having a Rare child helps you to connect with others (especially if your Rare child loves to hug). One of our Raregivers mentioned how having her Rare child helped her and her husband as parents to get out and connect with others who also had Rare kiddos.
Be yourself
Connection can flow when you are being yourself, your mind is quiet and you allow others the space to come to you. Relax and take time each day to find ground inside yourself before you extend yourself to others.
Paying attention
Your attention is a form of love. When you share it with others, it is a gift, and sometimes, your silent attention can be an invitation to connect. It can also be great to connect with others by reaching out to them on special occasions and letting them know you care. Maybe you reach out to someone on their birthday or anniversary (perennial calendars are great for remembering these dates). Knowing that someone is thinking about you is meaningful, and it reminds us that we are interconnected in the web of life.
For instance, it can feel good when people are tracking you and your family, especially after your Rare child has undergone a scary and perhaps major surgery, and you are feeling concerned and isolated. When friends, family members or community reach out to you to ask how your Rare child is doing, you can relax a little bit knowing you’re not alone.
Maintaining connections with others is crucial to our sense of well-being.
Coming up next week: The Places we Go When We Fall Short
A common thread in our support groups has been the perfectionism, guilt, shame and embarrassment we find happening in our lives. This is normal. And practicing self-compassion allows us to be with these emotions and experiences in a different way. Come explore what it is to hold space for ourselves, welcome our feelings and better understand where we are coming from.
Please Join Us
You may not realize how much you need the Angel Aid community until you find it.
Zoom Link: Click Here
We look forward to being with you soon. ❤️❤️❤️
