Nearly 8 Hours and Almost 500 Miles

The Power of Showing Up

Author

Laura Antinoro
April 07, 2025

Dear Friend,

Ever feel like you're just... existing? Like the color's been drained out of your days, and you're going through the motions? Yeah, I get it.

I've been there, big time. Recently, I was hit with some serious family drama – the kind that leaves you raw and reeling. And to top it off, I’m struggling in a new state, completely cut off from my people. I felt adrift, like a boat lost at sea.

Then, my incredible friend Katie, sensing my need, dropped everything and drove eight hours to be with me. Eight hours! She brought homemade comfort (that cake!), a listening ear, and a whole lot of love. It was a lifeline. It reminded me that we're not designed to navigate life's storms solo. We need each other.

I'm writing to you today about the sheer, undeniable power of community and friendship. It's about how these connections fill our souls, lift us up, and remind us what truly matters. Because sometimes, what we need more than anything isn't a solution, but a hand to hold.

So maybe you’re someone who, like me, on the outside, makes it seem as though you’ve got things all together, but beneath the surface, you are wrestling with feeling disconnected and overwhelmed.  Maybe you’re surrounded by people, but still feel utterly alone. That ache of isolation? It's real, and it's soul-crushing.  

Here's the thing: we're built for relationships. It's in our DNA. We crave belonging like we crave warmth and laughter. When we have strong, supportive friendships, it's like having an anchor in a storm.

Emotional First Aid: Friends are our safe havens. They're the ones we can ugly-cry with, vent to, and celebrate with. They remind us we're not alone in our struggles.

The Joy Multiplier: Remember that saying, "A joy shared is doubled, a sorrow shared is halved"? It's true. Life's good stuff is better with friends, and the hard stuff is a little less heavy.

Mirrors of Truth: Friends hold up a mirror. They show us who we are, our strengths, and sometimes, the not-so-great stuff we need to work on. They help us grow.

Cheerleaders for Our Souls: They believe in us, even when we don't believe in ourselves. They champion our dreams and remind us of our worth.

Okay, so how do we cultivate these life-giving connections? It takes effort, especially when we're feeling depleted.

  • Show Up: Put yourself out there. Join a group, take a class, volunteer. Find spaces where you can meet people who share your passions.

  • Be Real: Vulnerability is key. Share your heart, your fears, your joys. That's how we build intimacy.

  • Invest Time: Friendships are like gardens; they need tending. Reach out, make plans, be present.

  • Be a "Katie": Show up for others. Offer support, a listening ear, a helping hand. It comes back tenfold.

I keep coming back to Katie. Her friendship was a gift, a reminder that I'm loved and seen. It wasn't about fixing my problems; it was about being with me in them. That's what community is, right? It's showing up for each other, in the mess and the magic.

And you know what? In a world that's increasingly digital, these real-life connections are more vital than ever. For someone like me, who spends so much time online, the need for genuine interaction is even greater. These relationships ground us, they nourish us, and they remind us that we're human.  

So, let's choose connection over isolation. Let's build our tribes, cherish our friendships, and remember that we're all in this together.

(And hey, while we're at it, maybe a little less screen time and a little more face time wouldn't hurt either! 😉)

Warmly,

Laura

Essential Oil Spotlight:

The Blanket of Console®: Finding Comfort

Incorporating essential oils into all aspects of our health is so powerful.  This week I have relied heavily on a couple of my favorite blends, but one more than others.  DōTERRA Console® is sweet, floral and its aroma offers a little extra comfort.  Here’s how you can bring it into your daily routine.

  • Morning: A drop on her wrists provided calm for the workday.

  • Lunch: Diffusing it created a peaceful office haven.

  • Evening: Massaging it into her temples eased tension and racing thoughts.

Console® doesn’t erase the pain, but it can help you feel strengthened, hopeful and focused on practicing self-compassion. It can become a symbol of comfort, reminding you that even in darkness, peace and healing are possible.

How to Use dōTERRA Console®:

Diffusion: Add 3-5 drops to your diffuser to create a comforting atmosphere.

Topical Application: Dilute 1-2 drops with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut oil) and apply to:

  • Wrists or pulse points

  • Heart area

  • Back of the neck and shoulders

  • Bottoms of feet

Inhalation: Place a drop in your palms, rub them together, cup them over your nose, and inhale deeply.

What Console® Does for Your Emotions:

  • Promotes feelings of comfort and reassurance

  • Helps to soothe grief and sadness

  • Encourages a sense of hope

  • Supports emotional resilience

  • Can lessen feelings of anxiety and overwhelm

Don’t yet have your own Console® blend? Click here for a super convenient roller so you’re never without that comforting presence when you need it.

Mindful Moments

Practice mindfulness this week with these daily affirmations. They will encourage you.

Diffusion: Diffuse dōTERRA Balance® to create a grounding and stabilizing atmosphere. Its earthy aroma helps to reduce feelings of anxiety and promotes a sense of calm, encouraging inner connection.

Diffusion: Diffuse dōTERRA Console® to foster feelings of comfort and reassurance. Its sweet, floral scent can soothe feelings of loneliness or sadness, reminding you that you are supported.

Diffusion: Diffuse dōTERRA Motivate® to inspire confidence and courage. Its invigorating aroma can help to overcome feelings of self-doubt and empower you to speak your truth.

Diffusion: Diffuse dōTERRA Passion® to ignite feelings of joy and connection. Its warm, spicy scent can encourage you to connect with others with enthusiasm and authenticity.

Diffusion: Diffuse dōTERRA Cheer® to create an uplifting and positive environment. Its bright, citrusy aroma can promote feelings of happiness and gratitude for the support of community.

I hope this week's message has reminded you of the incredible power of connection and the importance of nurturing your well-being. Remember, you're not alone on this journey. We're here to support you.

Want to connect with others who share your desire for a balanced life? We are launching our online community and you can be a founding member here. I hope you find encouragement, share experiences, and discover even more resources for holistic living.

And if you're looking for personalized guidance, we invite you to explore our coaching services [link to coaching] – let us walk alongside you as you create a life filled with purpose, joy, and meaningful connection."