Empathy, honesty, and compassion connected us.
I’ve been thinking about friendship lately and how grateful I am for the galentines in my life. I love my friends. Not just on one day, but every day of the year. Most have been a friend for decades. Others have been for a season. All have touched and taught me something in someway.
I just returned from visiting one of my closest friends in Charlotte, Tricia, who’s like a soul sister to me. We chatted, dined, cried, laughed, scoured and scored at consignment shops. And most of all, caught up and connected in person.
While I was there, I had the gift of meeting with “online author” friends. What a whirlwind few days of wonderful conversation with depth and resonance. I never knew two humans could meet online and form such instant, authentic bonds. I am in awe and grateful that technology can link hearts across the miles.
Speaking of fostering online friendships, I created the Soul Sanctuary Gathering Space in October, sensing others may also be feeling the strains of the pandemic. We gathered from several states. And strangers became friends.
Empathy, honesty, and compassion connected us. I provided a weekly, thematic prompt from which we dove deep—together. I had high hopes for our meetings, but honestly had no idea the immense impact we would collectively feel.
The vulnerability, trust, and open sharing inspired and deeply moved me. These dynamic women (pictured above with permission) asked if we could continue our meetings. So we reconvened, and this month’s theme is about love in all its forms.
Please keep scrolling for this week’s SOUL STORY VIDEO. While I walked with Tricia in Freedom Park, we strolled across a beautiful bridge. Our time together and this stunning structure inspired me to literally sit down, take out my phone, and speak from my heart. I hope it resonates with or inspires you.
I spoke about Vermont covered bridges in the fall. (I’m sensing a theme! Guess I like bridges?) We explored the area and encountered this modern, artful bridge. Then I spotted locks with names engraved on them, glinting in the sunlight that streamed between branches. I thought about connection. And also how we can open or lock our hearts, letting love in or shutting it out.
My wish for you this week is to seek places that fill your soul with love. Expand your receptivity. Feel how it spreads throughout your being. And share that love without expectations. Spend some time nourishing old friendships and kindling new ones.
What’s your favorite memory you’ve made with a friend? Reach out here or on social (links below) and let me know. I’d love to hear from you!