Just after we moved here, I attended a homeschool kick-off party for a large umbrella homeschool organization. The event was held at a park, in early September, and I was wearing Cousin It — who hadn’t slept well the night before — in an Ergo. I was tired and sticky from the humidity.
And of course, friendless and utterly lonely. I had been away from my Jugs for two weeks at that point, and I missed them terribly. Other than my next-door neighbor, I didn’t know anyone.
At the party, my kids were all running around and talking to other kids, making friends. I envied them. I wish adults could get to know each other by playing games together. Instead we make small talk.
One thing I always tell myself when I feel bad (physically or emotionally or whatever) is that in time I’ll feel better. At the party, I tried telling myself that but it didn’t work — I actually thought I might cry instead. Just as I was about to make a break for a quiet shady spot where I could weep in peace–
– a woman asked me to sit with her during lunch.
zomg, thank you!
I don’t think she had any idea that I was beginning to have a complete meltdown. I had sunglasses on, so I don’t think she could have seen me getting teary. And honestly, after eating lunch with her, I wasn’t so sure that I even wanted to be friends with her. She was kind of annoying. But at that moment, I was so grateful.
Maya Angelou said, People may not remember exactly what you did, or what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel.
The mom who invited me to sit and have lunch with her made me feel good.
Filed under: attachment parenting, Daily Life, homeschool Tagged: | homeschool kick-off
I’ve been in that same spot at the homeschool picnic. So glad you found someone who pulled you in!
Yes, I know everyone has been there, but while it’s happening you feel like the only person in the world who is lonely!
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