How have you dealt with the feeling of not "fitting in" with a group or organization with which you continued to remain affiliated?

For me, the organization I have often felt ambivalence towards because of not feeling like I “fit in,” has been the church. When I was in the midst of processing personal beliefs and figuring out my identity, I had a hellish time feeling like I belonged with the “normal church crowd” (e.g. middle class, mostly married with kids). Almost always I felt out of place.

Later in life I have been a part of different churches that have reflected my beliefs and lifestyle, yet, there are times I continue to feel like it doesn’t fit. Perhaps a simple solution would be to not attend church altogether, but I believe it is important for me personally to be a part of a faith community.

I continue to deal with this experience by going through seasons of solitude without cutting off my relationship with the church.

There are other groups and organizations in which I have experienced ambivalence. This is just an example.

Without this turning into a debate about religion, I’d like to discuss the experience continuing to remain affiliated with a group or organization in spite of feeling out of place. What has been your experience and how have you dealt with it?