Generally, to “fit in” means you have been accepted into a group, environment, or culture. “Fitting in” involve adapting to certain norms or expectations, like dressing a certain way, sharing common interests, or understanding unspoken social cues.
Fitting in doesn’t mean you can fully express your individuality. People adjust or hide parts of themselves to blend into a group. While fitting in can offer a sense of security and validation, it isn’t authentic.
Opposingly, “belonging” is when one feels genuinely accepted, valued, and connected within a group or community, without needing to change who you are to be accepted. Unlike fitting in, belonging allows you to feel at home being yourself. One realizes he/she/they are appreciated for who you are, not just for how well you match the group’s norms.
Belonging goes beyond surface-level acceptance. It is a deeper, more authentic feeling of connection and inclusion. It brings with it a sense of security, comfort, and affirmation that one is part of something larger. God never wants you to be anything other than your authentic self and God always wants you to know you always belong in God’s kingdom.
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