In her book I Like Me, Anyway (page 87-90) Brooke Romney was invited to a party with great food and company. She is usually pretty outgoing but that day she felt nervous. She sat at a table with strangers and introduced herself. They talked for a few minutes, but soon each of them had to leave and she was alone. She sat alone for an uncomfortable length of time because all of the other tables were full. She felt like an awkward 13 year old. Finally, when it was too painful to stay, she left the party. She realized that we all want to belong and we all have moments when we feel lonely and unwanted. Some women feel that way much of the time. She said, "There should always be room in our pew, on our row, in our circle."
She asks if we have neighbors who don't attend church because it hurts to come and sit alone. Do we have ward members who feel left out or snubbed? Do we have neighbors not of our faith who feel completely ignored? She writes that there are valid excuses why we don't reach out, "but I am asking all of us, as disciples of Christ, to put the excuses away, and try to figure out how we CAN follow our Savior's example and embrace one more."
These words struck me:
"Wouldn't it be wonderful to be known as the person who broke down barriers, abolished cliques, refused to judge, and made this world just a little softer, a little easier, a little more accepting for all of us? It is important for us to realize the power we have in creating connection in our own lives and what that effort can do for others."
Lessons Learned:
We all have moments when we feel lonely.
Be inclusive. Be a gatherer. Reach out!
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