From "Me" to "We": Embracing the Power of Community

Over the past few months, and especially in the last few days, I’ve had a profound realization: I need to surround myself with people—specifically women—who believe in the importance of community. It’s become clearer than ever that when we live our lives solely focused on those within our own four walls, we lose touch with the deeper meaning of what life is truly about.

Insular living is not what we, as humans, were built for. Our very nature thrives on connection, collaboration, and shared experiences. Community is one of the most significant pillars of a healthy life. This isn’t just a lofty ideal; the data backs it up. Social isolation has been labeled an epidemic in the United States, a country that also struggles with some of the poorest health outcomes among developed nations. It’s no coincidence.

But how can we help change this? How can we move from a "me" mindset to a "we" mindset? Sometimes, it starts with the smallest shifts. A change in perspective. A genuine smile. A simple “hello” to the person you see every morning. Believe me when I say I have a hard time accepting that not everyone will reciprocate these small gestures—but that’s okay. The act itself is powerful.

When we focus on "we" instead of just "me," we open doors to deeper relationships, broader support systems, and a sense of belonging that nurtures both the individual and the collective. It’s in these connections that we find strength, joy, and purpose.

So I ask you to reflect: How can you foster community in your life? Perhaps it’s reaching out to someone you’ve lost touch with, volunteering for a cause close to your heart, or simply being present for the people around you. These actions, though seemingly small, ripple outward to create a more connected, compassionate world.

Together, we can reclaim the essence of what it means to truly live.