tribe

noun  \ ˈtrīb

: a group of persons having a common character, occupation, or interest

That’s how Merriam Webster defines tribe.

Here’s how I define it:

Tribe

noun \ trīb

: a group of badass, bold, beautiful, brave, caring, generous, thoughtful people who get you, all of you.

Everyone needs a tribe. Whether you are going through infertility or navigating adoption or none of the above. You need people like this in your life. Period. End of story. But, in my opinion, you need them even more when infertility or adoption are part of your story. It can be some of the most lonely and isolating times of your life. But the glorious thing is, it doesn’t have to be. Your people are out there. They are probably looking for you too.

I feel immensely blessed to say that I call a fierce tribe of women mine. We come from all different walks of life. Our stories are all different. But in so many ways so similar. Want to know how I found them? Well most of them anyway. Instagram. No, I’m serious. We became Instagram friends and then we became what I call “real life” friends.  I messaged them. Asked if they wanted to be friends. I’m totally serious. Do the same. Put yourself out there. Go and brunch with people you have never met before and then shed tears of joy when you realize you’ve found ‘your people’. Don’t be embarrassed. Don’t be shy. I promise you it will be so worth it. Because the thing is, when things fall apart they will be there helping you picking up the pieces. They will text just to check in and see how you are doing and let you know you are on their mind. When there are moments to celebrate they will be jumping with joy for you and with you. They will fundraise for you. They will do research for you. And when you are finally coming home with your baby in your arms, they will get balloons and make signs and let their kids eat cheddar bunnies off the floor just so they can be there to welcome you home. This is what life is about. Surrounding yourself with people who love you and being that same person for other people. And even though our stories aren’t the same at all, they all get it. In some way or another even if adoption or infertility aren’t part of their story.

And that is gold.

So this is a challenge, go find yours. Don’t waste another minute.

And to mine, you know who you are and I love you to pieces. Thank you for being you.