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LIFE LESSONS | SET 3:4

DAY 4
RESILIENT CONNECTIONS: THE POWER OF SUPPORT

Today, let's explore the importance of connection and the role it plays in fostering resilience. Remember, you're not alone on this journey.

GRAB YOUR JORNAL AND ANSWER THIS ONE

Who is someone in your life who exemplifies resilience, and how have they inspired you?

Reach out to a friend or family member. Share a challenge you're facing, and ask for their support or advice. Sometimes, the act of reaching out is a resilient step in itself.

THE RESILIENCE OF CONNECTION

Alright, let's talk about your secret weapon in the fight for resilience: your people! We humans are social creatures. There's some seriously awesome power in our connections with other people. When life tries to knock us down, our relationships can be like a safety net, catching us and helping us bounce back stronger.

Think about it for a minute. Try to remember that time you were going through something tough? Didn't it feel better to have someone to talk to? Or a family member to give you a hug? That's the resilience of connection in action, Sweetheart. Cherish it.

These connections don't just provide comfort. They can inspire us, challenge us, and help us see things from new angles. It's like having a personal cheering squad and advisory board all in one!

Let me tell you about when we first moved to Fond du Lac. Keith didn’t know anyone here, especially other artists. As he painted one painting after another, he framed one painting after another. And the man who owned the frame shop started showing his work to local artists who were excited by what they saw. Eventually, he entered a competition or an art exhibit (I don’t remember which). And so many artists came up to Keith and introduced themselves. They wanted to come to our home to see more of his art. They invited him to see their work. About a dozen new friendships with these artists blossomed in a matter of weeks. And they didn’t just visit. They helped him, encouraged him, shared their own struggles, and celebrated his wins. And he did the same for them. And they still do almost fifty years later!

Building resilient connections isn't about having a gazillion friends. It's about nurturing meaningful relationships based on trust, empathy, and mutual support. This could be with family, friends, teachers, or mentors.

Reaching out for help isn't weak - it's smart and strong. By nurturing our connections, we're not just boosting our own resilience, but we're helping build a more resilient community. It’s never too soon to start building your connections. And we’d love a spot if there’s room. We love you. - Granny & Paw

Organize a game night or casual chat with friends. Laughter and connection are powerful resilience boosters.

"A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out."

• Walter Winchell •