I moved to this Long Island suburb from Manhattan eight years ago. In the midst of all the greenery and walks along the beautiful harbor, I can still feel lonely and isolated.
I would like to change that – for myself – and other women who may feel as I do. My experience in supporting women through various life transitions has taught me to treasure the small group and its incredible power.
My own life has included many transitions.
My two-decade career on Wall Street was non-stop, I made industry friends all over the world. Then running the Principle Quest Foundation for 12 years was another joyful journey. Then I retired (again).
My own experiences over 40-plus years taught me so much about how a group works, the importance of feeling safe, and how important it was to not go past my own capabilities. In my view gurus are not actually helpful because, in fact, each woman has the answers inside herself, if only someone could listen without giving advice or trying to “fix” her. We honor a covenant of confidentiality and learn from hearing the other women’s stories.
That’s why on June 11 at the First Congregational Church of Manhasset, I am hosting a small group to explore the possibility of a local gathering making a real difference.
Charlotte Beyer
Port Washington
Charlotte,
You should check out Womanspace in Great Neck. For about 50 years, this group has been doing exactly what you describe: women supporting women, in all situations and through life transitions. Womanspace meets every Wednesday at 1pm at the Great Neck Social Center, 80 Grace Ave., Great Neck.