About a year ago, I shared my experience with you about a recent encounter at a local park (read that post here). At the time, I was a new stay-at-home mom, had just recovered from major surgery and was eager to make new friends for both my two toddlers and myself. Long story short, I was having trouble. I was lonely and feeling left out and maybe even a little sorry for myself. Well, I’m back to share with you what has changed over this past year, and more importantly, how I have changed.
After writing those words last year, I read the many comments you left and immediately felt better. So many others felt the same way and many of you encouraged me to reach out to different groups and to not feel discouraged. I immediately started to change my attitude and live by the quote, “Be the person you want to meet.” Because I’m pretty sure I was closing myself off and was the one standing in my own way.
It started with tapping into the resources I already had…my friends! I scheduled play dates, planned outings and made it a point to be more social. I quickly realized that not only did I miss being social, but I missed my friends. These people have known me for years and years and getting together with them is always a cherished time.
I then decided to branch out at the place where I was spending most of my time – the gym. I started taking a group training class twice a week and was thrilled to meet other moms who were in very similar shoes. We’ve gone from acquaintances to friends and they’ve turned out to be some of my biggest cheerleaders.
And the last change may be pretty obvious, but it has to do with what you are reading right now. Joining the other moms of Cincinnati Moms Blog has been such a blessing. Becoming part of a group of women who are passionate, supportive, smart and love our wonderful city has been so fulfilling. Even if most of our interaction is virtual (but I love our in-person gatherings too!), these women have lifted me up by sharing their words and their hearts. And you know what? As a reader, you have too.
Making friends as an adult is tough. We are preoccupied with our own families, jobs, hobbies and to-do lists and many times our friends (or making new ones) falls to the bottom of our priorities. But I would argue that we need friends now more than ever, especially those who can relate to this season of life. I’m lucky enough to have put myself out there and came back with relationships, new and old, that have filled a void I was feeling. And if you’re feeling lonely and need a friend, there’s a spot on my bench for you.