What I Learned in the Past 48 Hours From SW...

The other day, as I was fielding *ahem, possibly deleting* messages, from SW members, wanting to get to know me better, I came to realize some things, that I truly need to keep in mind while on this site. These realizations may seem so obvious, but it's easy to detach yourself online, because we aren't sitting face-to-face, across from each other at a coffee shop, really seeing each other's expressions, body language, voice intonations, or merely how they like their latte.

I learned not to assume things about a person, based on the groups they join. Their group choices may turn you off, and seem excessive, offensive, or not your cup of tea, but don't be afraid to dig a little deeper. Ask thoughtful questions and pull them from behind those groups banners. Sometimes, just sometimes, they might surprise you. They may be entirely different than your first impression and how you pegged them. You, in turn, may surprise them. They end up being so much more than you envisioned, doing great things in and for the world. These wonderful SW members are just waiting to emerge, and been seen, and heard, and discovered...if we just take the time.

I know it's impossible and not feasible to make connections with everyone you come across. But if you have a moment of hesitation about someone, and your index finger is hovering over the "delete this message" box, listen to your instincts and reconsider getting to know them, if even only for a short time. Because, if you do, they might bless your life in ways, you can only imagine. Everyone here has something special to offer. Let's embrace those differences and grow as a community. 💌