Messages from the Herd
These messages were shared by members of our community as part of Gather the Herd.
Each one is a small reminder that we are not alone in what we feel. Some are reflections, some are encouragement, and some are simply a few honest words offered to someone who might need them.
This space was created with the hope that these messages help people feel seen, supported, and a little less alone.
Take your time here. Read what resonates. Come back whenever you need a reminder that connection is always possible.
Dear Reader,
"These feelings and/or circumstances are temporary."
That phrase has gotten me through some very scary moments. Moments that seemed to last forever. AND I'M STILL HERE!
I'm proud of You! Just by reading this You are performing Self-Care. Well done!
"You is kind. You is smart. You is important."
You are unique! You are special! You are needed!
Please take the best care of You! You will get through this.
With Trust and Resilience,
A fellow human being that has struggled and will struggle again.
Hopefully Helpful Hacks:
"54321" - Do this silently or out loud, whichever works best for you. Find 5 things in your surroundings. They can be 5 purple things, or 5 soft things, etc.. Then find 4 things of another color, and so on.
Squeeze your Left toes, and relax. Squeeze your Right toes, and relax. Keep going, back and forth, as purposefully as you are able.
"Leaves on a stream" or "Clouds in the sky" - As each thought comes, do your best not to judge it. Remember, our thoughts are not who we are. Do your best to place each thought on a leaf or a cloud. Let them float on as they may...
Play an old movie or tv show that you've already seen. Did you find anything new this go around? Maybe a joke that hadn't landed before? Or a flub?
Adam
There was a time when I felt deeply lonely, and the strangest part was feeling alone in that feeling itself.
I thought everyone else had their place, their people, their circle — and I was the only one who didn’t.
But when I started talking about it, I learned that almost everyone carries that feeling at times.
So why not talk about it? Why not reach toward each other instead of hiding it?
Sometimes all it takes is one conversation, one shared moment, one place where you feel welcome.
Ania
When I've felt alone, being around animals,
fresh air, and kind people has helped me
remember that I do not have to carry
everything by myself.
Spending time in nature helps remind me to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the small things in life.
If you are reading this and feeling disconnected, I want you to know that there are people in this community who care about you and are glad you're here.
Anna