Mindful Conversation: The Space Between Hello and Goodbye
As a parent, I’m tired like the majority of us. When an opportunity for sleep comes, I will take it (duh!). Unless it holds a lot of value...then I’ll consider giving up my date with my pillow. Tonight was one of those nights where I will sacrifice my sleep in order to find some meaning and connection with someone else. Some people call it “me-time” when they catch up with friends, but I don’t think I would apply that to me. I love my alone time and solitude, hence “me-time”. Sometimes going out for coffee with a friend at first is a chore. But something happens in between saying “hello” and “goodbye”. Something that invigorates and excites me and fills up my bucket.
I had such a night tonight. My sister, our good friend, and I all met tonight to discuss a book we have been reading on parenting. This book has changed my sister’s and my life (for the better) and our friend recently received the revelation about it. It was so wonderful to come together to support each other as moms. Because being a mom is hard. All of our kids are so different and they really don’t come with a manual. We all look for one, and there is a billion-dollar industry out there on parenting how-to’s, which can be helluva confusing for someone looking for help as no two books are the same. I think what we are lacking is a village around us to support each other in a positive way and tonight I felt like a village. Other times, I feel so judged when I am out with my kids. Judged positively when they behave (ha!), and looked down upon when they don’t. It is terrifying to be part of a community that is so judgmental about something I am still learning. Tonight, there was no judgment. Just support. The way that it should be and was long ago. It was about us talking about our strengths, our weaknesses, our successes, and our struggles (of which there are many as newer parents).
The space between “hello” and “goodbye” is a sacred one for me. When I see value in something, I have to cherish it and connecting with friends in a meaningful way is huge. Tonight, I felt passionate and invigorated to keep on keeping on with my kids. To advocate for them, love them, and be their person in this world who is safe and supportive. I have been lacking that lately as I’ve just felt tired and run down. My visit tonight reminded me of a marathon. I have been running this marathon alone for miles, feeling tired, weak, and unsupported—but then I reach the place where my village is there cheering me on, urging me to push further, dig deeper, and find within myself the courage and strength to be better each day. I am so grateful for my village. It has taken the effort to find one where all are loving and supportive—but it is so needed. Because at the end of the day, we are not alone. Even as you read this—you aren’t alone. Life is hard—adulting is hard.
Take time to be mindful in your conversations—the places between saying hello and goodbye. Maybe it’s a long conversation, or maybe it’s just a quick greeting to someone. Make it meaningful. When you say hello to someone and ask how they are doing, listen. That is where connections are made.
Hi, I’m Sharla.
I’m a Registered Social Worker who specializes in working with women to heal anxiety and all the fun it brings to the party, ADHD struggles, disordered eating, shame, and trauma.
I founded Bloom Narratives, a private practice that provides holistic wellness services.
Why? So you can be a game changer in your life. Because healing people heal people.Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.