I am a mom with no “mom tribe.” No village. No mom best friends.

I would like to be in a mom tribe. I would like to have a mom best friend. I could really use a village. I just have not found it yet.

I would describe myself as an introvert with some social anxieties. I am friendly with moms I meet at the playground. I am often the one who will start a conversation with a fellow mom I meet. I will ask to be Facebook friends and (especially if our kids are playing nicely) to meet up again sometime. But that next step — actually being friends — is difficult for me.

I’ve always felt just a little bit outside the social circle — as a kid, in high school, and beyond. I would occasionally be invited to the party, but never the sleepover. But it never really mattered to me back then. I had two sisters and a few close friends. I felt fulfilled with the people in my life.

That is basically how I feel now, too. I am invited to the playdates but not the girls night out. But now, as an adult — a mother — I’m wanting more.

I wistfully look at social media and see these amazing groups of girlfriends who are still so close after 20 years of friendship. They have experienced so much life together and have so much history. They do weekend trips together and girls nights out often. Their families vacation together. I see them support, love, and admire each other. It’s beautiful, and I love seeing it.  

And I want all of that, too. Is it too late? Did I miss my chance?   

I have, at least three times in my decade of parenting, thought I was finally finding my mom tribe only to painfully and sadly realize I am not. It is uncomfortable to admit that maybe these women simply did not like me. That’s OK — I am not trying to be anyone other than myself, and I am not trying to impress anyone. But lately, the social anxiety has gotten the better of me.   

I am mature enough now to know that not everyone is going to connect with me and want to build a friendship. However, I would like to find my tribe. Maybe I just need to start one myself. If I can be brave enough.