I belong!

@dtj217 Thank you! This is a potent reminder to all of us who live with lifelong conditions that may isolate us from our "Life before..." Each of us has a place in this world - it may just be different now.

I belong to the supportive community here at Mayo Connect. We may all have different illnesses, diseases, limitations...but we all GET IT and help each other and hold each other up through the tough times.

@dtj217
Bless you! Yes, you definitely belong!! 🙂

I belong to:
1. My loving God.
2. My son.
3. My pets (dogs and cats).
4. My neighborhood and local community.
5. My church family.
6. My Mayo Clinic online community of virtual friends who “get me.”

Here is AIs response to “belonging”:
“ "Belonging in the world" is a profound concept that encompasses feelings of acceptance, connection, and community. It relates to how individuals perceive their place within society and the larger universe. Here are some key aspects of this idea:
1. Connection to Others
Relationships: Building meaningful relationships with family, friends, and community members fosters a sense of belonging.
Shared Experiences: Engaging in shared activities or interests can strengthen bonds and create a sense of unity.
2. Cultural Identity
Heritage: Understanding and embracing one’s cultural background can enhance feelings of belonging.
Traditions: Participating in cultural traditions and practices helps individuals feel connected to their roots.
3. Community Involvement
Participation: Being active in local organizations, clubs, or volunteer groups can create a sense of belonging.
Support Networks: Having access to support systems, such as community centers or online groups, can provide a sense of security and inclusion.
4. Self-Acceptance
Authenticity: Embracing one’s true self and values is crucial for feeling at home in the world.
Mental Health: Addressing mental health issues can improve one’s ability to connect with others and feel a sense of belonging.
5. Global Perspective
Interconnectedness: Recognizing that we are all part of a larger human family can foster empathy and understanding across cultures.
Environmental Awareness: Feeling a connection to the planet and understanding our role in its stewardship can enhance a sense of belonging to the world.
Conclusion
Belonging is a fundamental human need that influences our well-being and happiness. It is shaped by our relationships, cultural identities, community involvement, and personal acceptance. Cultivating a sense of belonging can lead to a more fulfilling and connected life.”

Thank you for this prompt! I feel like it's easy to get caught up on symptoms and looking for solutions (especially on a forum like this one), but looking at the big picture and life outside of long-COVID is helpful.

I belong to nature, and the beautiful world around me.
I belong to people who enjoy doing summer activities together.
I belong to a place where I can feel like I can work to do small things to make a more just and sustainable community.
I belong to a group that has suffered much, but shown so much resilience in the face of uncertainty and lack of understanding.
I belong to a group that because of their health struggles, has likely all learned to be more compassionate, to take things more slowly, and to appreciate being able to do the small things in life, more than the average person.

Good luck to you all on your journey, and don't be afraid to reach out to whoever you know and trust to find belonging along the way.