It feels like there is a ton of things we can disagree on but as moms, it feels like maybe ONE thing we can all say “yes and AMEN” to is that parenting is HARD. I don’t know about you, but there have been plenty of things that have happened over the years that I was not prepared for. I had a vision of what life as a parent would be like and then it appears that things got turned upside down and maybe someone laughed at my best plan.
As we all agree that parenting is hard. From birth to preschool to elementary, middle, and teen years, and beyond, the thing we need most is supportive people. I work really hard to be a supportive friend to my immediate circle. Sometimes that includes letting their children hang out with us for a few hours or bringing a meal when someone is sick. I hope that you also have people that you are able to love that way and that it comes back to you, too.
For now, I want to talk about a bit of a smaller way to be part of someone’s village. This seems like an easier way to make sure people around you know you support them. As much as an Enneagram 2, I would LOVE to send everyone I know a meal or babysit their children, but most days that is not realistic for me.
Here are some small ways, I like to be a part of my friend’s village:
- Support their children’s fundraiser. Whether their child is in gymnastics, choir, girl scouts or goes to a special summer camp, buy the cookies and support their kids.
- Share their business with others. Many friends are business owners and as the need arises, I will happily let friends and family know that I know someone who works in that industry.
- Be available to answer questions. As someone who works in the insurance industry, although not glamorous, I am able to answer many questions for people when they are in a crisis.
These are just a few ways we can all be helpful to those around us. Maybe if we all think of things on a small scale it will help us all do just a little bit. Just think, if we all show a small bit of compassion and support what a LARGE impact it will make. What are some other ways that you are supportive of your friends around you?
