We Belong

Do you know that song? Lowen & Navarro, performed by Pat Benatar, now background music on a commercial (ugh)?

It kept running through my head this weekend, courtesy of said commercial, but was a fitting theme song in many ways.

There was something so comfortable about being in DC with 13,000 other ADA attendees and countless other folks working the conference. Everywhere you went, nattily attired men and women walked around carrying ADA bags or wearing the blue lanyard and name tag that granted access to the convention center.

Coming out of the exhibit hall I was in high-energy mode, and chatted with whomever I sat next to on the Metro, or stood next to in line. "Are you here for the ADA?" was often followed by a conversation about our roles and interests. Chances were high that you were surrounded by people who knew about diabetes (or even had it themselves!)

As if to underscore the powerful force that is community, it was also Gay Pride weekend in DC. Understanding and high comfort levels abounded.

It's worth being away from the kids, these two days spent as part of something big, surrounded by folks who get what you are going through (on some level). Knowing that you can check your blood sugar or pull out your pump (or lean your head on your girlfriend or boyfriend's shoulder) and it won't faze everyone sitting around you.

It's a nice feeling, belonging.