Belonging. It’s a word we hear often, but do we truly understand its depth and significance?

The origin of the word “belonging” comes from the Old English “belangian,” which means to pertain to or be connected with. At its heart, belonging is about finding a place where we feel safe, understood, and valued—a place where we can simply be ourselves.

For me, the feeling of belonging is most vivid during the book club meetings I host each month. It’s more than just a group of people gathering to discuss stories; it’s a safe space, a circle where everyone can share freely without fear of judgment. It’s a community where vulnerability and authenticity are not just accepted but celebrated.

But belonging isn’t something that comes easily. It requires something deeper—self-acceptance.

Belonging Begins with Self-Acceptance

To truly belong, we must first embrace who we are. We must look at our flaws, our strengths, and our unique journey and recognize their value. Writing our stories is one of the most powerful ways to connect with ourselves.

Writing gives us the space to reflect, process, and understand our experiences. It allows us to take ownership of our narrative and uncover truths we may have ignored. But writing is just the first step.

Sharing our stories is what brings belonging to life. When we share, we invite others into our experiences. We foster understanding, spark connections, and inspire others to embrace their own stories.

Belonging, at its core, is about connection—and connection starts when we courageously let others see us for who we truly are.

Finding Belonging in Community

Every group I’ve ever created—whether it’s a book club, a mastermind, or a writing workshop—has been built on the foundation of belonging. My hope is always to create spaces where people feel safe to share, grow, and connect.

If you’ve ever struggled with belonging, know that it starts with self-acceptance. Write your story, embrace it, and then share it. You’ll be amazed at the sense of belonging you’ll find—not just within yourself but with others.

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Happy Thanksgiving, and thank you for being part of this journey!

With  Love and Light ,
The Legacy Writing guide