We Are Necessary: On Friendship, Feelings, & the Holidays



Beloved,

This past weekend I was able to spend time with my best friend as we went to the Brandy & Monica concert-whew!

Not only was it a time, but it was also deeply needed and long overdue bonding.

It reminded me how beautiful-and complex-it can be to navigate friendships in adulthood.

As adults, we’re juggling so much: work, family, relationships, responsibilities, and the ongoing work of becoming.

Sometimes, in the midst of all that, it’s easy to trick ourselves into believing that our people have abandoned us.

That feeling can sting-it can feel like a letdown or a loss.

But often, the truth is much more tender: our people are simply navigating their own lives.

That’s when reflection becomes essential.

What is it that we really need in this moment?

What’s actually missing?

It can be tempting to project our pain onto others because, let’s be honest, that can feel easier than accountability-or easier than doing the deeper work of asking ourselves, “Wait… am I the villain?” 😂

Here’s the thing: being human is a profoundly physiological experience.

Our thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and bodies are deeply connected.

Sometimes we think with our emotions, feel with our thoughts, and choose behaviors that don’t necessarily serve us long-term-but they might offer relief in the moment.

And that’s human.

So as we move through this holiday season-when things can feel overwhelming, heavy, or emotionally charged-I want to gently remind you: stay connected.

Check in with yourself.

Check in with your people.

Engage in what brings you joy and what allows you to release. Rest. Laugh. Cry. Move your body. Be honest with yourself.

You are necessary.
We are necessary.

If you need support in unpacking what staying connected looks like for you, I invite you to visit my website and download your free workbook on staying connected.

If you need support in unpacking what staying connected looks like for you, I invite you to visit my website and download your free workbook on staying connected.

Let it be a companion as you continue tending to yourself and your relationships.

In Ubuntu,
Dr. Ebony White

And if you want more, check out the latest issue of my newsletter, Sanctuary Soul.


Know someone who might benefit from reading this?

I humbly request that you forward this message to at least one other person you love, admire, and respect to have them follow me & subscribe here.

Are you part of an organization or team that would benefit from wellness speaking, training, or consultation support?

I’d love to connect!

Book a consultation call with me to share about your vision for your team or organization.

Until we meet (in your inbox) again.

P.S. Be sure to keep an eye out for more good news, resources & inspiration that I'll be sharing in the coming weeks! Together, we'll create a community of wholeness and wellness.

In Ubuntu,

Dr. Ebony
Founder & CEO, Sikhona Sanctuary LLC
info@drebonywhite.com

Ubuntu | I am because we are, and because we are, I am.

Dr. Ebony White | Sikhona Sanctuary

Read more from Dr. Ebony White | Sikhona Sanctuary

Hey Reader, “I’ve been gone for a minute, now I’m back with the jump off.” – Lil’ Kim It’s been a while since you’ve heard from me, and whew… a lot has been happening! As I’ve shared before, last August I made some big moves — literally and figuratively. I relocated to a new state, started a new job, settled into a new home, and even did a little exploring around the world. But if I’m being real, I’ve been slacking on my own soul care for a minute. So, I’m using this moment to realign and get...

Hey Reader, I know it’s been a little bit, but I’m back! I hope you have been doing well as we transition fully into Spring. Did you know, May is Mental Health Awareness Month? Well, if you didn’t know, now you know! This month is a reminder to attend to your mental health and overall well-being. To take a step back and reflect on the ways in which you’ve handled yourself with care and attended to emotional, spiritual, relational, and psychological health. Often, we focus on completing tasks...

Hey Reader, Being a child of the 80s who was heavily involved in cheerleading and dancing, the phrase "break it down" holds a special place in my heart. This phrase instigates, invigorates, and builds anticipation for what’s to come. It is simply known that in the middle of a routine or song, when you hear the words "break it down" there is about to be a shift in the atmosphere. It may be a beat change, an acapella moment, or an intricate 8 count – we just know its 👏🏽 about 👏🏽 to 👏🏽 go 👏🏽...