Lonely

I heard a phrase today that got me thinking.  It was “I’ll be the angel by your side.”  It got me thinking about how we really all need each other.  To me there are few things worse than a sense of isolation.  Like no-one understands or even worse that no-one cares.
For a start I have found that is just not true.  They are out there.  They can be hard to find for sure, but they are there.  Just a couple of days ago someone again said to me something that is a joke in our society but can mask a cry for help.  They said, “I’d tell you, but no-one listens.” I did what I always do in that situation.  I said, “I’m listening.”
I have mentioned it before but think it is worth saying again a group set up chairs and carried placards which read “listening ear.”  It was done so people could share without a sense of being judged.  The placard bearers were only there to listen.  It was not an advice session; it was a listening session.  They were amazed at the response.
I know I need a listening ear at times.  I am not an island.  I have no desire to appear too cool to seek help when I need it.  If I do that, I am the one that misses out.  It does not mean I unload willy nilly, but it does mean I will share with the right person at the right time.
They reckon a burden shared is a burden halved.  I subscribe to that.  I find it incredible how much better I feel when I get something off my chest to someone who hears and understands.  Better still if they can help me do something about it if appropriate.
They reckon loneliness is endemic.  I have known what it is like to be in the midst of a crowd and lonely.  Merril and I have a good marriage, but I believe not all marriages alleviate loneliness.  I have also come across people that are friendless.  Generally, they have people around them and all looks good but a short discussion without probing in any way reveals it is not.
It seems guys in particular in our society are taught to be strong and independent.  So much is good and right but it does not go far enough.  People need to know it is ok to be vulnerable.  It is ok to need others.  In fact, it is the way it is and being shown any other way is not telling it like it is.
I have found that selective sharing needs to happen.  My faith means I know I am never alone, but I also know I am wired to need others.