I recently attended a gathering with a group of women I didn’t know, except for the organizer, whom I had only met once before. There were about 12 to 15 of us, all gathered to hear a Ukrainian immigrant share her story about her life before coming to the U.S., her journey here, and what life looks like now.
It was honest, moving, and empowering. What struck me most wasn’t just her story, but how engaged and curious everyone was. I found myself nodding along, not just to her words, but to the shared values in the room, curiosity, resilience, empathy, and openness.
Despite not knowing anyone, I didn’t feel out of place. And that reminded me: belonging isn’t about familiarity—it’s about connection. It’s about being in a space where you feel seen, heard, and safe to be curious.
This reminded me of the Brene Brown quote:
True belonging doesn’t require you to change who you are; it requires you to be who you are.”
