The Power of Friendship, Connection, and Community: A Foundation for Resilience

Throughout my life, I've navigated periods of isolation. From fleeting moments in grade school to the aimless drift of young adulthood, and even amidst the demands of motherhood, those feelings of profound loneliness have surfaced. Yet, I stand here today, empowered to share my voice, precisely because of the enduring strength of meaningful human connections.

My closest friend, a constant presence since early childhood, has been a cornerstone of my resilience. While I occasionally grapple with feelings of dependency, the truth is, her unwavering love, acceptance, and support have been a lifeline. It wasn't about taking; it was about her persistent belief in me, a gentle nudge reminding me to stay grounded when I felt adrift. We've navigated our share of challenges, but our bond remains rooted in mutual respect and unwavering support. I know, without a doubt, she'd be there for me in any circumstance, just as I would for her.

Though distance has kept us apart since my first pregnancy, our occasional conversations reassure me that my presence holds value beyond my immediate world. They provide a comforting assurance that I'm part of a community that extends beyond my daily sphere. I find immense joy in celebrating her successes and in offering a listening ear during her struggles. Last winter, when our family faced unexpected financial hardship, she extended a generous hand, providing groceries and stability. It was a humbling experience, one that reinforced the profound impact of genuine kindness.

Beyond her unwavering support, I've also been blessed by countless other acts of compassion. There was the insightful English teacher who reintroduced me to yoga, recognizing my internal turmoil and offering a path to inner peace. A high school friend who shared the exhilarating freedom of conquering steep slopes and running down mountain trails. The compassionate individuals in Alaska who offered sanctuary during a vulnerable time. The unwavering support from friends in Salt Lake City, even when I struggled to reach out. The empowering woman at the rape recovery center who helped me reclaim bits of my sense of worth. The mentors who recognized my work ethic and encouraged my professional growth. The dedicated volunteers in arts programs for at-risk children who gave me purpose during a challenging period as a child and gave me a chance to give back as an adult.

Later, while working alongside my best friend, we became active members of our companies corporate responsibility initiatives, impacting our community through feeding the homeless, organizing clothing drives, and volunteering at the VA. Though it never felt like enough, we did what we could with the resources we had. In subsequent roles, though we lived in different parts of the country, we got involved with similar programs, fostering a culture of giving back. These experiences instilled a profound sense of purpose, reinforcing the belief that collective action, however small, can create meaningful change. My best friend regularly distributed gift cards to strangers and those in need. We organized Thanksgiving dinners for families and connected with lonely customers during the holidays, demonstrating that acts of kindness, both random and organized, can uplift both the giver and the receiver.

Recently, at a friend's house for their wonderful little one's birthday party, I experienced the rejuvenating power of community firsthand. Surrounded by fellow parents, I found validation and support, a "soul shower," as I described it to my therapist. My partner and I both felt supported and connected by stories of our daily struggles and aspirations, offering encouragement without judgment. It was a powerful reminder that we are not alone, that our efforts as parents are valued, and that we are part of a network of individuals striving to make a positive impact.

Throughout life's journey, every instance of positive support has been a beacon. Whether it was a teacher's encouragement igniting my writing dreams, or my sister offering sanctuary in her basement during tumultuous times, these moments were anchors, helping me navigate towards light even in the deepest shadows. When isolation threatened to consume me, a simple smile or acknowledgment served as a gentle reminder: no one is truly alone. There are souls dedicated to illuminating the world, and each time we pass that light on, we weave ourselves into the human tapestry, a collective, interconnected organism, like a grove of aspens, rooted and reaching together. We possess the power to transform lives, even when we feel powerless, through a smile, a genuine compliment, or any act of support; these gestures ripple outwards, their impact beyond our comprehension. If you feel adrift, if darkness seems to prevail, venture into a public space. Offer a kind word, a sincere smile, a genuine compliment. Witness the shift within your own body and mind, and know that your single act might just be the lifeline someone desperately needed in that very moment.

I implore  everyone to seek out opportunities to connect with and serve others, whether through organized initiatives or random acts of kindness. These connections are the threads that weave us all into stronger, more compassionate communities. The support I've received has undeniably shaped my life, my relationships, and my capacity to nurture my children. And so, I pledge to continue this cycle of kindness, knowing that even the smallest gesture can create a ripple effect of positive change in a world that can seem starved for more positive outcomes. Please, join me if you can!

Keep moving forward friends,

Leah Corey