by Immaculata Osuji
Loneliness is not the absence of people; it is the detachment from them.
So many people feel lonely today despite being surrounded by others. This proves that loneliness doesn’t require a vacuum to manifest its attributes, it simply requires you to mentally or emotionally withdraw from those around you.
That is why we say, “No man is an island.” Metaphorically speaking, what is an island? It is a piece of land that has distanced itself from all other lands.
Reconnecting with the World
When loneliness creeps in, get up and explore the world around you. Let nature speak to you, let children amuse you, and let your neighbors make you giggle. If no one in your immediate circle makes you feel safe and seen, trust that there are strangers out there who can help you forget your isolation. They are proof that the universe is filled with billions of unique individuals.
Go to a comedy show, or read and nourish your mind with the right content on social media. Emphasis on the right content. Social media doesn’t automatically erase loneliness; it often just distracts you from your present reality. Depending on what you allow onto your feed, it can consume your mind with either truth or lies.
Breaking the Walls of Hurt
Sometimes, even physical interactions can leave us feeling lonely. Why does this happen? Often, it is because people have been deeply hurt or offended. Instead of moving forward, they begin to judge the entirety of humanity by the actions of the few who misled them.
To that, I would ask: Have you met the entirety of humanity? Have you interacted with all eight billion people on Earth?
Since doing so is impossible, you have to realize that the world is full of vastly different people. If you interact with a diverse mix of individuals, you will find those who truly belong in your space. You are fully permitted to choose who you let in.
Overcoming Subtle Pride
Loneliness can also stem from a place of subtle pride. This happens when you are lonely despite having purposeful people in your life, yet you refuse to call or check up on them. Instead of reaching out, you wait for them to call you, even when you genuinely miss them.
I have learned this recently: whenever I miss or think of a friend, I pick up the phone and call. The result is always mind-blowing. It constantly reveals the power of togetherness, bringing immense peace and a deep sense of connection. Those conversations strengthen our joy and rebuild our bond. In the end, it doesn’t matter who reaches out first; what matters is the beautiful outcome it brings.
Shifting Your Focus
Lastly, never focus on loneliness. Whatever you focus on expands. Fix your heart on other things,particularly purposeful endeavors and you will be incredibly glad you did.
I know I said “lastly,” but what I truly meant is that this is my final word! (Lol).
If past hurt chased you into isolation, I am deeply sorry for what you went through. But please don’t despair. You have a safe space among genuine people and one of them is writing this piece to you right now.
