As I sat with a friend, sharing and reflecting on recent events, it was overwhelming apparent that there were times in his life where friends had been on a walk. Without being critical, we were busy with our lives and the harsh reality is that he had faced the present without tangible support in the room. As I let the pauses in the conversation linger on my heart, I realized that the sense of facing a moment alone is universal. Everyone has, at one time or another, been in this situation. I know individuals that can vocalize her/his experience. Equally, I know many who are a loss at how to describe or talk about it.
Experience suggests that feeling aloneness emerges from within without regard to the number of individuals around us. The emotional response can be triggered by a feeling of not being understood, a struggle for acceptance, or a sense that one is not part of the community. Regardless of the trigger, being alone often creates a dark cloud within me that is hard to escape.
When I remember the bonds that connects me with others, my feelings of being alone diminish. It is as if the bond opens a pipeline of compassion, empathy, and support. It transcends distance and time. The connection often leads to the realization of hope, courage, and strength. It is an unexplained and often not talked about result of true friendship.
When I see and embrace the connections with others, I realize that each has been doing good while I was consumed with the moment at hand. The psalmist notes that “God will never walk away from his people, never desert his precious people.” (Psalm 94.14) I agree with his view, however until I am connect, it is hard to remember that s/he is working on my behalf in times I am aware as well as when I am not.
I sat realizing that I have an ongoing opportunity to remind others that I am thinking of her/him. I can nurture our connection when we are together and apart.
