It’s hard to walk into a room where you don’t know anyone.
Even a virtual room.
I get it. If you like the idea of the Building Boys Mom Club but are hesitant to commit to gathering with women you don’t know -- you’re smart! I think it’s safe to say that we have all been in more than enough meetings and gatherings that purported to be useful but were, instead, an absolute waste of time. Especially this time of year - who’s got time for anything else, much less something that might not be all it’s cracked up to be?
Let me tell you a bit more about me, about Building Boys:
I am a dyed-in-the-wool introvert, but through my work (first as a nurse, then as a journalist), I’ve gotten really good at connecting with other people. At helping them feel comfortable.
Maybe it’s because I had 4 boys, or because I’m one of 6 siblings, or because I frequently moderate panel discussions and podcasts, but I make sure everyone has time to talk. I amplify others’ voices.
I also know the value of sitting in silence. Of listening. I don’t force others to talk; I make space and respect their decision about what to share (or not).
I create time and space for others to connect. To stop spinning and obsessing and worrying about all the stuff and instead, find communion. Spaces where moms can say the things they’ve been carrying around in their heads and hear someone else respond, “Me too!” and “I thought it was just me.”
You’re not alone. Other moms are confused and mystified by their boys too. Other moms also feel a combination of deep affection and deep frustration where their boys are concerned.
Imagine gathering around a kitchen table with group of women who understand things you usually have to explain. That’s what Building Boys Mom Circle is like.
Yes, pulling up a chair can feel a bit intimidating.
But we ask our boys to move past fear all the time.
We encourage them to try out for the team, walk into the lunchroom, introduce themselves, go to camp, speak up, try again after failure. We know that courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s moving forward despite it.
And maybe we need that reminder too.
Maybe we need spaces where we can risk being seen a little bit too. Spaces where we don’t have to perform competence or certainty or “having it all handled.”
I can’t personally take on your responsibilities or solve every problem that comes with raising boys. But I can create time and space for you to be YOU. To let down your guard a little. To laugh. To listen. To connect.
So often, what we have to gain is so much bigger than what we’re afraid of. That’s why we encourage our boys to push through their fear. That’s why I’m reminding you that you can too.
A whole lotta support and understanding is on the other side of your discomfort.
Our first Building Boys Mom Circle will be next Wed., May 20. If you’d like to join us, you can find details here:
And if now isn’t the right time, that’s okay too. I’m glad you’re here & I’ll continue showing up with support and inspiration.
Here’s to building boys!
Jen
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