Where Do You Feel Community?
The other day, I walked into a restaurant here in Asheville, and standing in front of me in line was a new friend of mine.
We exchanged smiles, said hello, hugged, caught up briefly, and then went our separate ways.
This might seem like a small moment, but for me, it was monumental.
It was the first time since moving to Asheville back in June that something like this had happened—running into someone I know.
A historical moment, really.
As I walked away, I couldn’t help but smile. I felt more connected to my new home and my new community.
So, it got me thinking—when do you feel community?
Is it when you're surrounded by your closest people all in one space?
When you walk into a familiar place and see someone you know?
Is it online, in a Facebook group or on a group text?
For me, it’s all of those. My sense of community stretches across Asheville and around the world, thanks to the internet 🌎
But recently, my understanding of community has deepened.
After Hurricane Helene hit Asheville in September, community wasn’t just about comfort—it was survival.
Now, as wildfires devastate parts of LA, I’m seeing the same resilience and need for connection.
As humans, we’re drawn to stories of communities coming together. They bring warmth to the chaos, like a healing balm over wounds ❤️🩹
Having experienced the destruction of a hurricane, I understand firsthand how life-altering these events are, and it makes the devastation in LA hit even closer to home.
As humans, we care about humanity as a whole, but when there’s a personal connection, it strikes differently.
If you’re looking for a personal connection to the LA fires, I want to share two families I know who have lost their homes.
Cindy is a dear friend and team mate from college and Leah is the sister of another good friend. If you're able, every little bit helps during this time.
Cindy and Clarissa: GoFundMe link
Leah and Ella: GoFundMe link
With so much happening in the world, this is when we lean in and lean on one another.
Community isn’t just something we rally when disaster strikes—it’s something we build with intention, over time, through care and support.
Community is one of my guiding themes this year. I’m excited to share new offerings soon to keep fostering the connections we’ve built together.
Keep an eye out for updates—there’s so much more to come.
Until then, I’d love to hear from you: where do you feel community?