Creating Your Tribe: The Power of Supportive Connections
We aren’t meant to do life alone. In our hardest moments, in our victories, and in the quiet in-between, having the right people around us makes all the difference. Your tribe—the ones who lift you up, encourage you, remind you of your strength, and pray for you—are essential. They don’t just show up for the big moments; they’re there in the everyday. They listen, they support, and they have your back.
But what if you feel like you don’t have that kind of support? What if you feel isolated, unsure of where to turn?
I know that feeling all too well. When I was first diagnosed with MS, my entire world changed. I went from a busy, rising career to suddenly not being able to drive, work, or even socialize the way I used to. It was one of the loneliest times of my life. But little by little, I started building my support system.
At first, it was my husband and kids, who adopted a we’re in this together attitude. We learned to laugh through the crazy symptoms and even crazier reactions from others. (My high school-aged daughter made me a shirt that read “I am not drunk or high” on the front and “I have MS” on the back to squash the rumors flying due to my difficulty with balance issues!)
Then there was my mom, who stood by me at every doctor’s appointment and supported me when I needed to ditch my first doctor for one who actually listened. There was a church member—someone I didn’t even know well at the time—who also had MS. She and her husband became treasured friends, and I learned so much just by watching how they supported and fought this battle together.
And then there was a stranger—someone I never even met in person—who changed my life. We connected through an MS support group, and she shared her expertise in training service dogs. She walked me through the entire two-year journey of training Lilly (only the best service dog ever—although I might be a little biased!).
My tribe kept growing: new doctors who listened when I turned to complementary alternative medicine, friends who understood, and countless others who showed up along the way. (I truly treasure and appreciate you all so much!)
Looking back, I realize that my tribe didn’t form overnight. It came together one person at a time, often when I least expected it. And that’s the thing about finding your people—you don’t have to search for a huge community all at once. You start with one connection, then another, and slowly, your support system grows.
Your Tribe is Out There—Keep Looking
If you feel alone right now, I want you to know that your tribe is out there. Maybe they are already around you, waiting for you to recognize them. Maybe they will show up in an unexpected place, just when you need them most. Or maybe they are still waiting to meet you.
The best way to start? Be that person for someone else. Listen. Encourage. Show up. The more you offer kindness and support, the more you’ll attract people who do the same.
I’d love to hear from you—do you have a strong tribe, or are you still searching? What’s one quality you look for in a true friend or supporter? Share in the comments—I’d love to encourage and support you on your journey!
Repeat these positive affirmations to yourself...
* I am resilient and can overcome life's challenges.
* I am strong and have the power to make the right choices for me.
* I am grateful for what I can do.
0 Comments