Trusting the Process: How Community, Courage, and Clarity Shifted My Path

It still amazes me how the choices we make—sometimes without much thought—can ripple so deeply through our lives.

 At the beginning of last year, I joined the West Hartford Chamber of Commerce. I didn’t fully understand its purpose or where it might lead. Truthfully, we hadn’t even planned to live in West Hartford. After selling our home quickly, we searched for a place to rent and landed here somewhat reluctantly—further from friends and family than we’d hoped. But life had other plans. 

Since moving, I’ve experienced intense personal transitions: guiding both my parents through end-of-life journeys, welcoming my daughter back home, and celebrating her marriage. Amid all of this, I placed my business largely online, assuming I wouldn’t need to branch out locally. But in truth, I was isolated—and I needed connection. 

During one of my regular walks to the library, I noticed something about the Chamber of Commerce and decided to reach out. I dove in with curiosity but also hesitation. While I might appear extroverted, I often carry the discomfort of being “the new one,” unsure of where I fit. 

Those early meetings were hard. Introducing myself, sharing my work, showing up in a room of people who all seemed to know each other—it was daunting. But I kept going. Gradually, I connected with members who inspired me, and something shifted. My clarity around my work sharpened. I felt empowered and grounded in my purpose. In just one year with the Chamber, I’ve taken trainings, collaborated with local professionals, and begun building lasting relationships. 

Yesterday, I participated in the West Hartford Chamber and Blue Back Square Health & Wellness Fair. I don’t do many “fairs,” and I wasn’t expecting much—but this event proved different. It was vibrant, engaging, and community-focused. I offered mini Reiki and Ear Acupuncture sessions, met dozens of people, and had conversations that reminded me why I love this work. 

What struck me most was how energized and connected I felt—not just as a practitioner, but as a member of this community. That experience brought me full circle. It reminded me that when I follow my intuition—even when it's scary—I grow. 

Our bodies speak to us. The key is to listen. To distinguish between real fear and the fear of stepping out of our comfort zone. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned about connection and navigatingisolation: 

Connection isn’t always about conversation. Group meditation, shared silence, and quiet presence can be just as powerful as words. 

Listening creates space. Letting go of the need to respond right away helps us truly hear each other—and ourselves. 

Online spaces can be healing too. Whether it’s Zoom, chat groups, or meditation apps, meaningful support is always accessible. 

Your body and inner voice are your best guides. When discomfort arises, explore it. Ask: Is this fear or growth? What’s needed to move forward? 

I’m grateful for the Chamber, my community, and every person—friend or stranger—whose presence has mattered. Here’s to listening deeply, connecting honestly, and continuing to stretch into who we’re becoming.

Are you struggling with connection or isolation? What is guiding you to move forward?