The feeling of loneliness is real and the depth of despair that feeling can bring is very sad for many.
Though I can honestly say I do not have an issue with loneliness specifically, there have been seasons and times when I have felt alone.
The irony for me is most of those moments occurred when I was surrounded by other people.
Being “alone in a crowd” is something that can be very painful. This feeling is especially difficult when we are young, though I am learning as I age, it can be just as difficult and painful when we are older.
Why?
The reason is simple. We were not created to be alone and the reality, we can be ”alone in a crowd” points to this truth.
You see, we are relational beings created by a relational God for relationship.
We were created to live in community with others. Though, some of us are more comfortable when our community is smaller. We all desire to know and be known. This is both simple and complex and is easily seen when we feel we are on the outside looking in.
The problem with feelings is there really is not anything anyone can do about the way we feel. As with being “alone in a crowd” our feelings are uniquely ours. Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to change the way we feel.
I do not have a solution for the phenomenon of "being alone in a crowd", I only know it exists. I also know, when we find ourselves in this situation, we need to consider the possibility someone else may be dealing with the same issue.
When we do, we will understand we are not alone at all.
So, the next time you feel “alone in a crowd”, survey the room and reach out to the ones who seem alone there too. When you do you will understand you are only alone if you choose to be.
Joshua 1:9, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
