Loneliness Is A Choice

Are you lonely? Do you recognize if you are lonely or not? So many people are surrounded by company, yet feel very much alone. Yet, loneliness is a choice.

Humans need connection. Most of our interactions these days are superficial. They lack substance. If we want to combat loneliness, we need to connect with others on an emotional basis.

This feels like a dangerous adventure in today’s world. Everyone is afraid of not passing the judgment of others. Sadly, those who we feel are judging are often just as afraid of being judged by us!

Because of all the filters on social media, we can change and control how others perceive us online. But living a lie makes it hard to finally meet in real life. That beautiful thin blonde may turn out to be a short, plump brunette.

Looks SHOULDN’T matter. But when they do, they limit us in so many ways. Many people live dual lives. They are one person online and someone completely different in real life.

No matter how big your online community is, it can’t replace personal interaction with a human. It can’t replace the emotional connection of a hug, or the intimacy of looking someone in the eye when they are talking.

You are certainly able to have a deep conversation with someone online, whether it be through text or video chat. But it doesn’t come close to sitting across from someone over a cup of coffee and a piece of pie and having that same conversation.

We live in a world where communication is instant, and it’s easy to stay in touch. And yet, there is more loneliness now than ever before. We’ve traded text messages for phone calls and emails for personal visits. In a business setting, this can be easier and more efficient for both parties, but on a personal level, it is extremely sad. Humans thrive on personal touch. Hugs are survival tools.

When was the last time you shared a hug with someone? And the time before that? Can you even recall it?

How long has it been since you sat down and had lunch with a friend? We wonder why we feel so lonely, yet we avoid the things that combat loneliness. Out there is at least one friend wishing you would call or text or invite them to lunch or even coffee.

Senior citizens are especially prone to loneliness. Sometimes it’s a really hard thing for them to get out. Mobility issues can be a heartbreak for a senior who loves people and conversation, especially in a small town.

Sadly, this pandemic of loneliness strikes more and more young people these days too. It would be so easy to combat if we quit being so self-conscious about our appearances and take a chance on people. We may find a new best friend.