I love receiving comments and emails from women who relate to and appreciate what I share on The Inspired Room. It’s wonderful to be part of a community that supports me and connects with one another through thoughtful comments and shared ideas.
Many of us search for “our people” — those who understand our style, values, and quirks, and who accept our imperfections. Finding people who get you feels reassuring and joyful. That sense of belonging matters.
Through blogging we share photos of our homes, homemaking and decorating tips, and stories in the comments. I enjoy hearing about your projects, your pets’ antics, or laughing along with you about Jack’s ridiculous behavior. I love receiving photos of your homes and little notes of encouragement. These everyday exchanges — words and pictures — make connection feel real.
Those daily interactions help friendships form around shared interests. It’s encouraging to feel support when you’re excited or need a lift. For example, it meant a lot to me that so many of you voted for my blog at Apartment Therapy recently — you feel like real friends even if we only know one another online.
Still, online connection has limits. Most likely you won’t invite me for coffee, drop off soup if I’m sick, or have me over to help paint a room and eat cookies together. As much as I want to, that simply isn’t possible through a screen.
So who will do those real-life things for you? Have you found friends nearby who notice when you’re not truly “fine” and will reach out? Or have you considered being the person who checks in with someone else, brings a meal, or offers a listening ear? Small, tangible gestures can mean a lot.
One online community that nurtures real-life connection is (in)courage. They’re encouraging women to meet in person in neighborhoods and cities around the world. On April 28th, women everywhere can attend or host an (in)courage in real life gathering in homes, coffee shops, and churches. This un-conference, called (in) real life, is designed to foster local relationship and support.
The women at our church are hosting a conference location, and I’m excited about it. I hope local women will come, bring friends, and introduce themselves to new people in our community. I want neighbors to become friends who are willing to do simple, generous things for one another, like running to the grocery store to show they care.
If you’d like to attend or host an (in) real life gathering, consider signing up. Look for information about local meetups and ways to get involved in your area.
Also, check out my friend Kristen’s post about community at We Are THAT Family for more thoughts on building local connection.