"If you want to be in a community, then make a community"

Building a community starts with you. It’s like planting a seed—you’ve got to nurture it if you want it to grow. The essence here is that if you’re longing for a sense of belonging, the best way to achieve it is to take the initiative and create it yourself. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have to rally hundreds of people; even a small group can be a community if it’s built with genuine connection and mutual support.

This idea might resonate with anyone who has ever felt isolated or disconnected. It’s especially relevant in today’s world, where we can feel surrounded by others online yet still crave deeper, more meaningful interactions. The concept dates back to ancient times, when communities were formed out of necessity for survival and mutual aid. Think about those old villages where everyone knew each other and worked together to ensure everyone’s well-being.

Let’s take a real-life example. Imagine you're new in town and don’t know a soul. You miss the camaraderie of your old neighborhood where people looked out for each other. Instead of waiting for someone else to knock on your door, you decide to take the first step. You organize a block party. You hand out flyers, you set up a barbecue, you bring some games for the kids. Before you know it, people start showing up. They bring dishes to share, they introduce themselves, and they start connecting. That’s the magic of creating a community—one simple act of reaching out can spark a chain reaction.

So, how do you apply this in your own life? Start small and be genuine. Look for common interests that can bring people together. It could be a book club, a hiking group, or a regular coffee meet-up. Use social media to your advantage—create a group or event and invite people. But the most important part is to show up consistently. Be welcoming and inclusive. Communities thrive on trust and regular interaction.

Now, let’s paint a picture. Imagine Jane, who moved to a new city for a job. She works long hours and, after a few months, realizes she doesn’t have friends to hang out with. Jane remembers her college days when she loved playing board games with friends. She decides to start a weekly game night. She posts about it on local social media groups and invites her coworkers. The first night, only two people show up. They play, they laugh, they share stories, and they decide to meet again. Over weeks, the group grows. More people join in, bringing their own favorite games and snacks. Jane’s simple idea of a game night slowly transforms into a vibrant community of friends who look forward to their weekly gatherings.

In the end, communities are about people coming together, sharing experiences, and building bonds. It starts with one person taking that initial step—like Jane did. If you’re longing for that sense of connection, don’t wait for it to come to you. Take the initiative, put yourself out there, and start building. You’ll be surprised at how many others are looking for the same thing and will join you on the journey.