My writing made me more open to sharing my fears and worries, and more open to being vulnerable.
Certain things are tough to admit to yourself, never mind others.
This December will mark the 3rd anniversary of my move to Southampton.
It was a life-changing decision, and it was scary, but moving to a new big city on my own was both exciting and tough.
I did a deep dive into this amazing city and its people, and I moved into my first apartment.
As the 3-year milestone approaches, I have been asking myself whether I truly belong here.
I have been comparing Southampton with other places I could have moved to, imagining what life there would be like.
I love Southampton. I know many people, and I am known in some communities, but there are still times when I feel all alone in this big City.
After moving around most of my adult life, my friends are all in different locations, even different countries.
It is no doubt much harder to make friends in your 50s when people around you generally have busy schedules, families, and a circle of friends.
I totally understand this.
As much as I love doing things solo, I would love to have a friend in Southampton I can call on Friday night and go to the pub with.
Whenever I feel doubt, I remind myself that these feelings are normal, and that the Universe always sends me messages confirming I am on the right path.
A week ago on Sunday, I was at the local Carlton Place market. After spending time talking with people I know, my doubts started to fade.
I felt a real sense of belonging and a strong connection to a community of like-minded people, which gave me hope that I truly belong here.
I bought some pieces of vintage jewellery and was talking to lovely Carole. As I walked away from her stall, she handed me a beautiful vintage purse.
I looked at her with a question mark on my face.
“It is a gift for you. For being a special customer”
I don’t think Carole knew how much this gift meant to me.
I no longer question whether I belong in Southampton.
Sometimes a purse can mean much more than a beautiful accessory. Sometimes it means friendship and acceptance.
For this, I am truly grateful.
With Love as Always,
Yana De Lilac
PS: One of my readers told me that you can’t put a like on the post unless you register for a WordPress account. But you can leave a comment without one.
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