Column: Stepping into a new experience requires boldness

It is said that one of the things people fear most is speaking in public.  Many people, even when standing up before a group of friends, will get sweaty palms and a quiver in their voice.
But there may be another scary experience that doesn’t get as much press.  Walking into a group of strangers hoping to find somewhere to belong. Groups are interesting entities. They can appear close and cliquish when they are not and can seem open and welcoming when they are not. When we are yo