When my sons were young they joined the scouts. On a beach outing I supported Akela where I supervised and watched the group of scouts jump, scream, alongside throw and catch a ball. I was aching to be part of the gang, to belong alongside my sons who knew everyone, amongst the waves on this scorching hot day. I watched, I waited, then tiptoed into the water.
Low and behold the ball fell in front of me, I smiled and jostled it a few seconds before I decided which direction to throw it, (obviously being a woman it didn’t go in the direction I aimed it) everyone laughed and I moved in closer to the pack. As a parent/adult I felt I should be on the deckchairs nattering but I hated groups. I had nothing in common with any of them. I didn’t feel confident nor alive amongst adults at that insecure ‘divorced lonely period’ of my life.
Then suddenly I took an outside look at us riding waves and the pack included me. I was part of the gang, the game, my children were not embarrassed. In fact they were proud because I wanted to play with them, know their friends and be one of the cool fun people instead of being an unengaging adult.
Your Inner Scout or Girl Guide has not disappeared.
This story runs parallel with how it feels to join a table at CCC’s. But it is as easy as this. Be a scout or girl guide again. Filter in, like you always did so you were never on the outside looking in.
Come like a scout/guide with the desire to enjoy, and the rest will take care of itself.
Everything is so bloody formal nowadays, how many people do you see smiling when they are older. Come on Everyone, remember who you are, fearless - fun, bubbly- energetic and happy to try anything.
In every CCC there is a trained host waiting to greet you. You will not be alone. I promise.
Everyone loves CCC’s. You will too, just take a leap of fearless faith and gulp of courage then your life will change for the better.