This quote by Canadian physician and author Gabor Maté came up on my meditation app this morning and it spoke to me. I didn't know who Maté was, and after a quick bit of internet research learnt that he has spent a lot of his medical career working with people who suffer from addictions and other mental health issues, including psychological trauma. One of the important proponents of this work is his belief in the necessity of social connections and relationships for good health.
Very often we think that we will be safe (or happy, or secure, or comfortable) if we are in charge. We are becoming a society that values individualism and derides communities that are collective, or work for a common good. Like Maté I believe that the social connections and relationships we have play an important role in how well and happy we are. We shouldn't believe that we have to do things on our own, or that we always need to be in charge for a favourable outcome (I'm talking to myself here!) There are certain things that we need to take personal responsibility for, of course, but knowing that you have a network of like-minded people to support, encourage and lift you up (and you do the same for them) is invaluable.
Many people are finding these communities online now, however, I think you can't go past old-fashioned face-to-face relationships. Even if it's just a small group of one or two it can make a big difference knowing that we don't always have to face things alone. Safety in numbers, as they say!
What about you? Do you feel that you have a good network of support, or are you someone who works best alone Are you looking for community but don't know where to begin? I'd love to hear what you think about Maté's words in the comments.
Thanks for stopping by, I hope you have a wonderful week!
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