Originally Posted by HopeCA

I think you may have pinpointed why wink
I have always tended to go inward in times of crisis, and since BD I’ve forced myself not to do that, for my mental health and that of D4.
It sounds like between lack of close friends due to being newer to your area and familial estrangement, your circle is feeling small right now. Good for you for going to a men’s group to try to remedy that, I think that’s brave. Sounds like the universe may be telling you to focus on expanding your circle in new ways?

Thanks Hope.

I've just hit 2 months officially physically separated and the novelty of the situation has given way to the sobering reality of it all.

My circle does feel incredibly small. But I also recognize I need to create my own happiness and not rely on others. I have my kids this weekend - I need to have a PMA and really embrace it, even if we don't have tons of activities planned.

I'm sure this is all normal and part of the process. The men's group has been disappointing so far. I don't find myself really connecting with the other people. Primarily this group focuses on helping men become more vulnerable and open about their feelings. This is not really a problem for me, probably because I use this forum as an outlet, plus IC, plus a couple close friends... but I feel like I'm not finding the connection or community that I'm looking for. Most of the other men are in the midst of various life challenges, and they reflect back a lot of empathy towards my situation, but it just feels sort of... empty?

To the general point about growing my circle, I think I just need to keep trying different things. The grocery store incident a few days ago was alarming -- how easy it would be to seek support from another woman.

I think I will go back and try Meetup again, and expand the activities I'm willing to try out.