Topic Tuesday // Finding community: Feeling belonging and connection // Tuesday 7th December, 7:00- 8:30PM AEDT

[Former-Member]

Question 1: What does Community mean to you?

I guess for me in it’s essence; it’s a group of people (big or small) coming together for a common purpose / theme / cause or activity.
It’s a space where ideas or opinions can be shared, or a coming together to take part in a shared activity. 

I also feel that it’s also about recognising that everyone has a valued part to play in a group and that each has an opportunity to be able to find that part & contribute in some way.

In short - Somewhere people can be seen, heard and valued.

What does it mean to you, who are here with us tonight?

[Daisydreamer]

So true @Shaz51 🙂 I'm interested to hear your experiences of finding connection and belonging in community

[HenryX]

Community means meaningful connection with others. Such connections provide support, nurturing, stability, assist in maintaining feelings of self-worth and more

[still_bookish]

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@Former-Member wrote:

In short - Somewhere people can be seen, heard and valued.

I think this sums it up beautifully, @Former-Member.

[greenpea]

Supportive, I think of community I think of the Sane Community. Kind, caring group of people.

[Daisydreamer]

"In short - Somewhere people can be seen, heard and valued." 

I really love this summary @Former-Member and what you mentioned about every person bringing value to a community. I think the diversity of experience is something that makes communities strong, and also where that connection and belonging comes in. 

[nony]

@Daisydreamer @Former-Member community to me means a safe space where i dont have to hide or be expected to explain why I'm different. Just accepted as I am with all my weirdness and differences in perspective of the world. A safe space where because of acceptance I can be honest especially to myself about how much I struggle just to look like im normal and have no expectations put on me to be quote "Normal"

[Daisydreamer]

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@HenryX wrote:

Community means meaningful connection with others. Such connections provide support, nurturing, stability, assist in maintaining feelings of self-worth and more

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Meaningful connection is so important isn't it @HenryX? Completely agree

[Shaz51]

Yes I agree @greenpea , @still_bookish , @HenryX , @Former-Member , @Daisydreamer 

Yes having that first connection to the Sane Forum made all the difference 

[Daisydreamer]

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@greenpea wrote:

Supportive, I think of community I think of the Sane Community. Kind, caring group of people.

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 @greenpea, it's a really special place, and you are also one of those kind, caring people who help make this space supportive and welcoming