I enjoy the spaces in between, probably because I identify as an ambivert.
To me, those are spaces where I have peace at home, but easy access to the energy a big city offers.
My wife and I somehow managed to find that balance, and I remind myself how lucky we are. We hear owls at night and coyotes roam free, yet we can get to major cultural events quite easily.
I’ve heard people say that they don’t need to meet new people or make new friends, yet I’ve always felt the opposite. Of course there are friends you can never replace and don’t want to. But there is always someone sliding out of your life (because you are changing and so are they) and someone new to fill that spot.
I think city life makes it a bit easier to connect with people, although it’s not just that. When we remain open to meeting others and make an effort, we attract others seeking the same thing. That can happen in a small town too.
I love this, Kiran! I'm so glad you've found that space, it sounds really ideal. I've always thought that our best friend could be right around the corner, we just haven't met them yet. It's a good way to remember the importance of making friends and meeting people. I hope you're doing well and hope we get to reconnect one day!
Love this Kim...and so relatable. As an introvert, rural living suits me best as I love the quiet, the wildlife, and lack of social interaction ;-) But, we do love the Bay Area, and more specifically Marin, where we spend much of our time helping out by babysitting the grands. The social interactions centered around our grandchildren, including their friends and parents from their school have been so good for me, and have helped pierce my isolationist bubble. Though I still find it exhausting, it's so much easier for me to be social while hiding in anonymity behind my 4 and 7 year old grands ;-) And then we get to come home...our respite from the busyness and chaos, to regroup and recharge before our next visit.
I love that - being able to hide behind your grandchildren! It's true, though, us introverts need social interactions, as well. I'm glad you're enjoying Marin and family. I didn't spend enough time in Marin when I lived in San Francisco. Maybe one day we'll all be able to come down for a visit :) It would be fun for our kids to play with your grandkids and see everyone again.
As difficult as it is for me, I do recognize the need some social time. As Karen is my polar opposite, socially, she inevitably facilitates interactions, including with most strangers on the street, particularly if they are walking a dog ;-) It would be so lovely to see you and your family Kim! And it would be great fun to introduce the kids. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you ever consider a trip this way. All the best...
Kim, I marvel at your writing talent. I see a lot of similarities between us and you so eloquently captured it. Thank you for the sacrifice it took to come and visit. ❤️❤️❤️
I enjoy the spaces in between, probably because I identify as an ambivert.
To me, those are spaces where I have peace at home, but easy access to the energy a big city offers.
My wife and I somehow managed to find that balance, and I remind myself how lucky we are. We hear owls at night and coyotes roam free, yet we can get to major cultural events quite easily.
I’ve heard people say that they don’t need to meet new people or make new friends, yet I’ve always felt the opposite. Of course there are friends you can never replace and don’t want to. But there is always someone sliding out of your life (because you are changing and so are they) and someone new to fill that spot.
I think city life makes it a bit easier to connect with people, although it’s not just that. When we remain open to meeting others and make an effort, we attract others seeking the same thing. That can happen in a small town too.
I love this, Kiran! I'm so glad you've found that space, it sounds really ideal. I've always thought that our best friend could be right around the corner, we just haven't met them yet. It's a good way to remember the importance of making friends and meeting people. I hope you're doing well and hope we get to reconnect one day!
*reconnect in person, that is :) grateful we can stay in touch online!
Love this Kim...and so relatable. As an introvert, rural living suits me best as I love the quiet, the wildlife, and lack of social interaction ;-) But, we do love the Bay Area, and more specifically Marin, where we spend much of our time helping out by babysitting the grands. The social interactions centered around our grandchildren, including their friends and parents from their school have been so good for me, and have helped pierce my isolationist bubble. Though I still find it exhausting, it's so much easier for me to be social while hiding in anonymity behind my 4 and 7 year old grands ;-) And then we get to come home...our respite from the busyness and chaos, to regroup and recharge before our next visit.
Cheers
I love that - being able to hide behind your grandchildren! It's true, though, us introverts need social interactions, as well. I'm glad you're enjoying Marin and family. I didn't spend enough time in Marin when I lived in San Francisco. Maybe one day we'll all be able to come down for a visit :) It would be fun for our kids to play with your grandkids and see everyone again.
As difficult as it is for me, I do recognize the need some social time. As Karen is my polar opposite, socially, she inevitably facilitates interactions, including with most strangers on the street, particularly if they are walking a dog ;-) It would be so lovely to see you and your family Kim! And it would be great fun to introduce the kids. Please don't hesitate to reach out if you ever consider a trip this way. All the best...
Kim, I marvel at your writing talent. I see a lot of similarities between us and you so eloquently captured it. Thank you for the sacrifice it took to come and visit. ❤️❤️❤️
It is never a sacrifice to see you. My favorite moments from the trip were spent under your cherry tree :) A little oasis.