Hi, sorry you haven’t heard from me for a while. I’ve been hibernating, dealing with some personal stuff, dealing with the world at large, and trying to keep my head on straight.

If you don’t know (but based on my subscriber list, you do know) that ICE has invaded Minnesota. They are almost omniscient, either you have seen them, known people who have, or you maybe have been to a location where ICE had just left.

And honestly? It sucks. I am trying to find ways to contribute and constantly feel like I’m not doing enough.

One of the ways I’ve tried to help is to build community through a writing group. I want folks to be able to have a safe space to write, journal, and meet like minded people. Maybe they’ll find new friends, a critique partner, or at least feel encouraged to come again.

I reached out to my city’s rec center to see if they would be willing to use their space to host a writing group once a month. They replied very enthusiastically! Yes, of course we will host you and in fact we are so excited that we will probably come! The employee put it on the website and said they would make a flier.

The first session was yesterday. I walked in, and the front desk had no idea it was happening. In fact, they said, the person who I had been in contact with had not been to work recently. Well, shoot.

I decided to stay a little bit to see if anyone showed up. Only my neighbor did.

I was disappointed, but also sad. I had envisioned this space to be an opportunity for neighbors and friends to build community around writing and get to know their local rec centers and employees.

I had tried to build excitement in my own network, and even sent the link to a Meetup writing group I participate in.

I emailed the folks I had worked with, and hopefully I’ll find a solution. I write this newsletter because maybe you’re struggling to find or build community, too.

In fact, another newsletter I subscribe to just posted an advice column about feeling like they don’t have friends. I guess all of this is to say, you’re not alone, but it might take some time to find those people or places that make you feel less alone. Especially during a time of uncertainty and fear.

Thanks for reading. I hear you, see you, and hope everyone is staying safe at this time.

<3 Martha