avatarKris Bedenian

Summary

The article reflects on the transformative potential of loneliness, suggesting that it can lead to self-discovery and personal growth.

Abstract

The piece titled "What’s the Purpose for Feeling Lonely?" delves into the author's personal experience with loneliness during the lockdown, contrasting it with the support received during a battle with breast cancer. It posits that loneliness, rather than being a negative state, can be an opportunity for introspection and creativity, as evidenced by the author's own journey into journaling, writing, and painting. The author encourages readers to see isolation as a chance to explore new hobbies, volunteer, or find comfort in pets, emphasizing the growth that can arise from solitude.

Opinions

  • Loneliness is seen not as a deficiency but as a chance to connect with oneself and foster personal development.
  • The author did not feel lonely during her cancer journey due to an outpouring of support, but experienced isolation post-recovery during the lockdown.
  • Journaling has been a significant tool for the author in navigating through challenging times.
  • The article suggests that solitude can lead to the discovery of new interests and talents, such as writing and painting.
  • The author believes that the challenges faced during isolation can inspire one to take up hobbies, volunteer, or adopt a pet.

What’s the Purpose for Feeling Lonely?

Photo by Ray Hennessy on Unsplash

“Loneliness is the poverty of self; solitude is the richness of self.”

– Mary Sarton

It’s been almost two years since lockdown, and what have we learned?

Is loneliness an opportunity to explore your inner world? I never felt alone during my breast cancer journey; people came out of the woodwork.

However, isolation hit shortly after I was healed. We had to distance ourselves; going out with friends became something of the past. So, the aftermath has been challenging still.

All I can say is I’ve written in a journal for 24 years, and there isn’t anything I can’t get through. Solitude has taught me that genuinely finding myself has been the greatest gift.

I would have never started writing articles or a book or begun painting without these challenges in life! What hobby, volunteering, or pet awaits you?

Inspration
Mindset Shift
Life Lessons
Short Story
Loneliness
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