In a heartfelt reflection on community and belonging, a writer shares their journey from a childhood spent primarily with family to discovering a deeper sense of connection later in life. Growing up, the writer was homeschooled alongside their younger brother, with their parents serving as their main companions. This tight-knit family unit was born out of their parents’ cautious approach to socializing, which left little room for friendships outside the home.
The writer recalls a unique upbringing, where their father taught them math and their mother covered a range of subjects, from English to Greek mythology. Despite the warmth and support from their parents, the absence of peers led to feelings of isolation. The writer often felt pressured to conform to social norms, even lying to authority figures about having friends at school, which they did not attend.
As they transitioned into adulthood, the writer sought community in their profession as a journalist. They found camaraderie among fellow journalists, bonding over shared experiences and the demands of their work. However, as time went on, the writer realized that these connections felt superficial. They began to seek community in their interests, like literature and film, but recognized that these were not true substitutes for genuine relationships.
It wasn’t until the writer reached their forties, after losing their parents, that they felt a real sense of belonging. Embracing their faith as a confessional Lutheran, they participated in the Sacrament of the Altar for the first time. This experience connected them to a community rooted in shared beliefs and values, offering the kind of fellowship they had long sought.
The writer reflects on the challenges of modern society, noting how many people are drawn to false communities that lack true depth. They argue that without a foundation of shared faith, many social connections can feel empty. Now, they feel they have finally found a meaningful community, one that offers genuine support and understanding. This Easter marks a significant moment for the writer, as they celebrate their newfound sense of belonging.
