In a recent LinkedIn post, Victoria Michaels discusses the profound sense of community she misses from her home country, Bosnia, while navigating life in the United States. Michaels shares her personal experience of feeling the absence of deep social connections, highlighting the cultural differences in community support and home-life integration.
Michaels opens by reflecting on her nearly three months in America, stating:
“It’s been almost 3 months in America And everyday, I still think the same: ‘I miss Bosnia. The people and the community.'”
The author contrasts her experiences in Bosnia with her current reality in the U.S., emphasizing the warmth and interconnectedness she felt there. As Victoria Michaels notes, the hospitality and support systems in Bosnia were deeply ingrained in daily life.
The Depth of Bosnian Community Ties
Victoria Michaels elaborates on the nature of community in Bosnia, describing a level of personal connection that she finds is different in the United States. She recalls specific instances of connection that underscore this difference.
“In Bosnia… I met families, grandparents, mothers. I’ve had lots of women make me meals, invite me into their homes. If i was ever sick, i had people lined to help.”
Michaels argues that this sense of readily available support and genuine welcome is a cornerstone of the community she cherishes and misses. She points out that this contrasts with her experience in certain areas of the U.S., which can feel isolating, particularly for individuals without a strong existing social network or close family ties nearby.
Navigating Isolation in a New Environment
The post delves into the personal challenge of loneliness, a sentiment Michaels acknowledges can be difficult to articulate but deeply felt. She candidly shares her own situation:
“Here, it’s just not the same. In certain areas, we can be very isolated. Especially if are like me and do not have a large family circle or husband (haha). Loneliness is a weird thing to experience.”
According to Victoria Michaels, this feeling of isolation is not unique to her situation and suggests that many others might relate to this struggle when adapting to new environments or facing life circumstances that limit immediate social support. She shares her post as a way to connect with others who may share similar feelings and experiences.
Considering a Return Home
Michaels concludes her reflection by posing a significant question about her future in the United States. Her contemplation of returning to Bosnia highlights the emotional weight of her search for a strong sense of belonging and community.
“The question now is: ‘How long will I stay?’ And the answer maybe is, ‘Not much longer.'”
Victoria Michaels’s candid sharing on LinkedIn serves as a powerful reminder of the fundamental human need for connection and community. Her insights offer a personal perspective on the challenges of relocation and the enduring pull of one’s roots when seeking a true sense of belonging.
📝 About This Content
This article is based on insights shared by Victoria Michaels on LinkedIn.
📅 Originally posted on September 5, 2026 | View original post on LinkedIn →