For the Sake of the Call

For the Sake of the Call

Apr. 26, 2007 - Unwelcomed Visitor

I hate being new!

I just returned from my first Inspiration Night with the local homeschool group, and I feel like I could sit down and cry. Overall, I’m an outgoing person; but initially, I can be quite shy. It’s intimidating to walk into a room of complete strangers who all know each other. It’s even harder when no one introduces themselves or welcomes you. Accustomed to the lack of common courtesy in today’s society, I attempted to overcome my initial shyness by introducing myself to a couple of ladies, but that didn’t help much due to the fact that everyone around me was involved in conversation and not even conscious of my presence. I was so full of hope that this would be a great opportunity to meet other homeschool moms in the area; alas, I walk away without any prospects of friendship. Over time, I’m sure that I’ll get to know some of these ladies and wonderful friendships will develop. I’ll overcome my shyness and muster the courage to break into the group. Eventually, I’ll probably even be running it. That’s the way it usually goes.

And when I know everyone, I’ll be much more sensitive to the visitors and go out of my way to welcome them and introduce them to the other moms. Being outgoing is easy when I’m not the visitor! Until then, I can’t help but wonder why none of the veterans of this group took the time to make me feel welcome tonight. I’m not a scary person; definitely not unapproachable. I even brought Snickerdoodles! And they were yummy!! This was a different type of meeting than normal. Instead of meeting in someone’s home, they met at a church where we listened to an informative Institute for Excellence in Writing presentation. Next month should be more promising: smaller, more intimate. There is hope!

As much as I wanted to come home and settle into a pity party, it was impossible to do so with a warm greeting from my 4 year old daughter. She was so excited that I was home before bed-time and anxiously greeted me with news that Daddy was “being nice of us” and reading The Hobbit. Then she sweetly asked, “How was your meeting?” And after I answered, she wrapped her arms around me, gazed into my eyes and told me that I was “so beautiful.” She may only be four, but she’s one of the best friends I’ve got! I thank God for her, and for my best friend, my husband, who is waiting for me to come snuggle up with him on the couch. These people love and appreciate me. With this I am content.

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Apr. 26, 2007 - Untitled Comment

Posted by nsremom

So, after reading your post in it's entirety....I'm not going to say, 'I'm sorry'. Seems like the last paragraph made the night just about perfect. A wonderful compliment, a hug AND a husband who's home to snuggle with? Sounds pretty great. :)

but, really. I am sorry for the lack of attention. It feels just so weird being somewhere new. I don't think we do nearly enough reaching out. Thank you for the reminder to be the one to reach out. I've been burned a couple times in recent years....badly. So, I'm a little raw when it comes to reaching out.