Sometimes I wander into situations where I think I belong only to learn that place is not for me. Recently I was very excited about an endeavor I planned to participate in, but then as the details of the event were revealed, it was clear, that it was not a welcoming event for me. The people hosting the event were generous and welcoming, but the parameters of the event were simply not a fit for my life at this moment--I didn't belong there.
In life, we are always choosing where we belong and where we don't belong. We know what just-right situations feel like. You feel welcome, you are a vital member of the situation, and you are happy to be there. Similarly we know what it feels like not to belong--it's uncomfortable, unwelcoming, and you can't get away fast enough.
But, should we sometimes push ourselves to try out uncomfortable situations with the knowledge that in time, those situations may become welcoming. I think we should be open minded to new situations and give those places, people, and events a try. We might surprise ourselves and find a new venue that appeals to us. When we stay stuck in the same-old, same-old, we might miss out on new opportunities and adventures that do appeal to us and enrich our lives.
None of us belong in every situation, and for all of us there are situations where we are totally comfortable and at-home. The key is to find where you belong in life and make the most of what that means.