NaPodPoMo 2024 – Day 7 – Thriving Together: The Impact of Small Support Spaces

Welcome back, everyone, and thanks for joining me today. I'm actually recording this pretty late at night because I just wrapped up a meeting with my breast cancer support group. We've been meeting on Zoom since January of 22. It all started with a small group of four or five of us coming together for a book study on mind over medicine. Over time, our group shifted a bit, but three of us have stayed connected and remained a part of this group for almost three years now.

Tonight was the first time we met in a couple of weeks, and it was so good to catch up with these two women who have become close friends despite the long distance. In the beginning, we met every week, and as time has gone by, our meetings have become a little less frequent. But the connection and the importance of those interactions, I haven't changed one bit. You know, there are a lot of big communities out there, and whether it's a Facebook group or another online forum, you can find a plethora of places where you can connect with thousands of people.

And while those places are wonderful for gaining information, seeing diverse perspectives, and finding a sense of belonging, they can sometimes feel overwhelming. It's easy to get lost or to feel like just one voice among many. And let's be honest, when you're looking for support, it's not about the numbers. It's about connection. This is where the magic of small groups comes in. When you gather in a smaller, more personal setting, you can share more openly, get to know each other's stories, and build genuine trust.

There's something deeply comforting about seeing the same faces week after week, learning each other's struggles and victories, and knowing you have a circle that truly gets it. This isn't just support. It's community. It's friendship. And sometimes it even feels like family. In a small group, there's space for everyone to be heard, to ask questions, and to receive the kind of encouragement that really sticks with you. It's where you can dig deep, not just into what's happening, but into how it's affecting you on a personal level.

And those connections, I can tell you from experience, they can be life changing. I would love to hear your thoughts too. What is the value of a support group to you? Have you ever been in one? Maybe a local group that you get together with on a regular basis? Or have you been involved in an online support group before? I would love to hear what you liked and what you wish was different about those groups.

And if you've never joined an online support group, is that something you would consider in the future? Let me know in the comments. I'd really, really love to hear your experiences and your insights, so please share those with me. Thank you for being here with me today. Take care. And until next time, don't forget to breathe.