Loneliness: a problem or an opportunity?

Loneliness is an experience that touches most of us at some point in our lives. It is a feeling that can creep in even when we are surrounded by others, a reminder that loneliness is not about physical isolation, but rather a mental state. You may be in the middle of a bustling crowd and still feel a deep sense of loneliness, or you could be sitting alone in a room and feel perfectly content.

ROOTS OF LONELINESS

One of the key reasons we feel lonely is our constant reliance on external sources of fulfilment. We often seek out the company of others to avoid facing our inner selves. This habit prevents us from being comfortable in our own company. The emptiness we sometimes feel scares us, leading us to escape from confronting our inner reality.

The truth is that many of the ways we try to distract ourselves – whether through entertainment, social gatherings, relationships, or even alcohol – are merely attempts to avoid facing the reality of our aloneness. Togetherness is fleeting; aloneness is our eternal companion. Yet we often engage in activities that help us forget this fact, seeking comfort in the temporary and superficial.

IRONY OF LONELINESS

Nothing hurts more than loneliness, yet relationships formed out of a fear of being lonely rarely lead to happiness. Relationships when driven by the need to escape loneliness often end up hollow.

If you examine your actions closely, you may be surprised to discover that much of what you do is driven by an inability to bear your loneliness that pushes you to constantly be busy doing something or be in the company of others.

TRANSFORMATION

The key to overcoming loneliness is to embrace your aloneness. When you joyfully accept your aloneness, the need for others diminishes. You begin to realise that you are sufficient unto yourself. Aloneness is not something to fear; it’s a natural state of being. You were born alone, and you will die alone. The transition period is a little painful and feels never-ending because of older habits, but it won’t be very long. The way to make it shorter and bearable is not to run away from it but to close your eyes and be with it.

By embracing your aloneness, you can transform those lonely moments into opportunities for creativity and self-discovery. Engage in activities that bring you joy and allow your sadness to disappear like dead leaves from a tree. When you pour your energy into making your aloneness enjoyable, loneliness, fear, and sadness will naturally dissipate, leaving you with a profound sense of peace and fulfilment. So, stop running away from yourself now.

Courtesy: Rajyoga Meditation Centre, Kingston (meditation courses and counselling are offered free of charge). Get in touch via email: bkmeditation.jam@gmail.com or WhatsApp: 876-853-7848. Follow them on Instagram: rajyoga_meditation_jamaica