What Lifts Me

My first two posts express thoughts that run through my mind in terms of what I 'want to say' to our larger society - feeling that more empathy and inclusiveness would help. This post turns back to sharing what else has helped me in my experience.
I'm a visual person, hence the photos! In addition to all these visual representatives, other things that help...

• Minimizing social situations where I'll be the only non-parent - or, at least, preparing myself with conversation starters and taking 'time-out breathers' if needed 
• Learning to appreciate and enjoy solo walks
• Being outdoors, open space
• Minimizing social media when family-focused postings feel relentless...holidays, back-to-school, etc.
• Connecting with other women without children - friendship with women who 'get it' firsthand has been vital to my healing. I've met women through the Gateway Women community who've brought comfort, laughter and kinship in ways I never imagined possible.

Both new and longer-term friendships enrich my life.  Loving, supportive family and friends (aka. kindly empathetic and gently listen without suggestion) lift me too! Beyond measure:)
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Feeling lifted has certainly taken time and courage - more thoughts for another day:)