When I relocated to Austin two years ago, I was completely alone. After spending nearly a decade in Seattle raising my children, the thought of starting anew, and leaving behind a remarkable circle of friends, filled me with anxiety. Building a social network in a new city often feels akin to dating; you connect with others through local events or community groups, peeling back the layers of potential friendships much like one would peel an onion.
During my first year in Austin, I met Jenna at a school meeting. Our initial interactions were characterized by typical small talk and polite exchanges, much like many early female friendships. However, everything changed the following summer when our kids joined the same soccer team. As we sat together week after week, I admired how Jenna took it upon herself to ensure that every mom felt included and engaged.
“Hey, Lisa, why are you sitting alone over there?” she called out to a mom who seemed shyly tucked away in the corner. “Come join us! Everyone, this is Lisa—her daughter is also on the team.” Her commitment to fostering a sense of community was nothing short of inspiring.
Jenna stands out as one of the most welcoming individuals I’ve ever encountered. Whether at a local art class or in the restroom at a cafe, she has a unique talent for sparking conversations and drawing others into the fold.
Many discussions around motherhood emphasize the importance of inclusivity. Some women often feel isolated, yearning for invitations to playdates or girls’ nights out. The unspoken social dynamics from our childhood tend to linger well into adulthood. Jenna, like many of us, faced her share of bullying as a child. However, rather than allowing those experiences to diminish her spirit, she used them as motivation to enhance both her life and the lives of others.
“Third grade was particularly tough for me,” she confided. “I struggled academically and faced ridicule from peers, which made me feel out of place for the first time.” This difficult period left her with insecurities, but during the summer before high school, she decided to change her narrative.
“I had a fresh start at a new school, and it was my moment to redefine who I was,” she explained. “Along with that, I promised myself to create an environment where no one else would feel like they didn’t belong.” Jenna’s inclusive mindset has shaped her approach to motherhood. She believes that finding the right social circle requires exploration and openness, stating, “When my son was little, we tried various activities—everything from playgroups to art classes. Ultimately, we discovered our community within the soccer families.” She emphasized that friendships should come naturally; if they feel forced or complicated, they might not be worth pursuing.
Despite her own vulnerabilities, Jenna remains acutely aware that everyone carries their struggles. As the school year kicks off once again, we, as moms, have the perfect opportunity to model kindness for our children when they meet new classmates. “A simple smile can go a long way,” she advised. “It can ease someone else’s nerves as they attempt to reach out.”
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In summary, Jenna exemplifies the power of inclusivity and community in motherhood. Her journey teaches us that while we all have our insecurities, fostering connections and being kind can create a supportive environment for everyone.