253. How to Build Belonging in a World of Loneliness (with Chris and Julie Bennett)
Welcome, dear listeners, to another episode of the show! I am beyond thrilled to be sharing this episode with you, an emotional and brutally honest conversation with Chris and Julie Bennett, the authors of Fighting for Family: The Relentless Pursuit of Building Belonging.
As the title of their book would suggest, we are unpacking the concept of belonging - what it means, how to cultivate it, and the profound impact it has on our lives, and Chris and Julie truly bring so much wisdom and authenticity to the table!
Their journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From uprooting their lives to move to Los Angeles without a clear plan, to facing the unimaginable challenge of Julie's battle with stage three breast cancer, their story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the power of community.
Keep in mind, though, that it's not just about their story; it's about the universal truths and practical insights that they've gleaned along the way. We're talking about creating space for vulnerability, navigating diverse reactions within families, and the transformative power of showing up authentically, and throughout our conversation, they both share invaluable lessons on embracing risk, fostering genuine connections, and finding belonging, even in the midst of life's greatest challenges.
If you're craving deeper connections, longing for a sense of belonging, or simply seeking inspiration to navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience, this episode is for you. Trust me, you won't want to miss a moment of this heartfelt conversation!
In This Episode
[0:35] - I am interviewing Chris and Julie Bennett, authors of the book Fighting for Family.
[1:50] - Chris reveals how the book came to be.
[3:21] - Julie points out how life's challenges turned her adventurous family into brave survivors, battling homelessness and cancer together.
[5:49] - Julie shares how their faith deepened amidst chaos, reshaping their understanding of belonging.
[8:49] - How did Julie and Chris navigate the immense risk and uncertainty, especially with children involved?
[10:37] - Chris details how they embraced faith and trust and found unexpected support.
[12:37] - Acknowledging diverse responses fosters belonging; embracing vulnerability allows authentic expression and connection.
[14:41] - Julie expresses that embracing vulnerability reshaped their priorities and perspectives.
[15:43] - Julie, despite hesitations, joined a diverse group of fourteen women, providing refuge.
[18:19] - I point out how Julie showing up despite uncertainties led to honesty, transforming awkwardness into a profound and meaningful experience.
[19:35] - Julie argues that belonging involves both giving and taking risks.
[21:41] - Believing in one's worth of belonging, Chris discusses, combats loneliness, prompting connection and community building.
[24:05] - Fostering genuine connections requires vulnerability without hidden agendas, creating space for authentic sharing.
[27:00] - Chris reasons that Jesus exemplified love and belonging, prioritizing the marginalized and modeling inclusiveness.
[29:39] - It's okay to feel lonely, even with loved ones. Keep fighting; there's hope ahead.
[31:51] - I announce that I am launching "Ten Weeks to a More Organized Home," with daily tasks for decluttering.
Links & Resources
10 Weeks to a More Organized Home
Books
Fighting for Family: The Relentless Pursuit of Building Belonging by Chris & Julie Bennett
Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community by Robert D. Putnam
Social Media
Money Saving Mom Deal Seekers Facebook group
crystal@moneysavingmom.com
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