Day Twenty-Four- Find Your Tribe

After my oldest daughter was accepted into the college of her choice, she decided to audition for the marching band. She had been playing the clarinet for six years and wanted to continue improving her skills. She was thrilled to be accepted into the group and started making preparations for her new adventure.

Each fall the marching band program holds a week-long camp prior to the start of the semester. She had to move into her dorm several days earlier than the typical student so she could attend the camp. Her roommates wouldn’t arrive until later in the week, and she didn’t know anyone in the band. She was extremely nervous. It was so difficult to leave her there. Not the typical college freshman move-in experience at all.

As the week began, I waited anxiously to hear from her. Was she enjoying herself? Were the other students being nice to her? Was she homesick? Was she scared? My mind was racing with all the thoughts a mama has after leaving her baby at college. Alone. In an unfamiliar place. With no friends.

When I finally heard from her, I could tell by the tone of her voice that she was happy. What a relief! She told me all about everything and then said these words, “Mama, I have found my people!” She went on to explain how much they all had in common and how easy it was to be with them. They all understood her sense of humor. They liked her. They accepted her. She said that she had never felt quite so at ease with any other group of people.

She went on to be a part of that group for the next four years. Some of her closest friendships came out of that group. Her “people.”

I think we all have that desire to find our “people.” Those who make us feel loved and secure. Those who accept us just the way we are. The ones who share our interests, values, and goals. Our tribe.

Sometimes our tribe includes family members. Sometimes it doesn’t. It is less about who we are related to and more about how we relate to one another. A tribe is a safe place where we can challenge one another to grow and become our best selves. Where we can laugh, cry, rant, encourage, and protect. Where we can do life together.

How do you find your tribe? Be on the lookout for those people who share a common interest. Maybe a book club. A community service organization.  A music or theater group. A Bible study or church group. A hobby group. Be brave and step out of your comfort zone. Try something new. Friendship can sprout anywhere!

Find your tribe and take care of one another. We are better together!