Community and connection -

I've been feeling somewhat lonely lately.

Are you feeling the same?

I have a wonderful team that I be part of. My wife is a great partner. I get to travel, and meet new people, which I love.

But my day-to-day when I am at home and working on my computer is exhausting me.

I am able to hang with people on zoom.

It's just not the same like hanging out with friends IRL.

Do you also feel this way also?

This is interesting as I used to love this. If I could avoid having any contact with people I would be the very best. Simply put me at the computer, coding, and I'm fine. Leave me alone.

It started in school where I was bullied. I was not at ease there. I didn't feel very secure in my home either, come to think about it.

The computer turned into my personal safe place. It would not say anything negative which made me feel uncomfortable. I was able to control it. I felt powerful and confident.

That all changed about two and a half years ago when I visited Necker Island. In case you're not familiar this is the private island of Richard Branson, the famous entrepreneur.

I visited together with a small group of entrepreneurs, many of whom were flying there in their private jets.

The experience of being on an island with strangers for the duration of a week brought all of my school issues up again.

I felt like I didn't belong. I wasn't suitable. Felt different. Needed to make myself different as well.

And it was tremendously healing.

That's the beauty of just feeling your feelings, by embracing kindness and compassion.

It is not necessary to know the whole thing. Just let the information flow around your mind.

That trip became a major event in my personal life.

(In actual fact I'll be returning this year in April. Please let me know if like to join.)

Since then, I've been to many many more retreats and occasions, gatherings and excursions with wonderful people. I've built friendships and relationships that are nourishing and fun filled with compassion and love.

So much so that nowadays I'd prefer spending time with friends instead of sitting on a laptop.

or if I'm to sit in front of the computer, then at the very least do it around other people that I love and care about who I am working with fun and challenging work with.

It's funny how things can alter when we allow it to.

So back to the question Do you find yourself desire for connection and community also?

I have a feeling it's not me alone.

Love,-