Loneliness - David Brooks's Blog

June 1 Med...
To self: Today, be mindful of Loneliness.
I love my alone time. Time that I can think, write, read, meditate and pray. Time that I can spend listening to my surroundings, the natural outside world. To my God.
However, when alone time changes to loneliness, it's entirely different. Loneliness can be a dangerous thing. It can lead to depression, or worse.
Be on guard that you spend sufficient time in social settings. Be aware of hobbies, interests, helping others, in fellowship with others. Busy yourself so that you may grow even more in appreciation of your alone time. Take time to be alone, but work to avoid being lonely. Commune alone...and in community. God knows.
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Cinquain on Alone
by D.A. Brooks

Alone
Attentive, true
Watching, listening, alert
Not to be habitual
Solus
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"Solitude vivifies; isolation kills."
      - Joseph Roux
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"There's a tremendous difference between alone and lonely. You could be lonely in a group of people. I like being alone. I like eating by myself. I go home at night and just watch a movie or hang out with my dog. I have to exert myself and really say, oh God, I've got to see my friends 'cause I'm too content being by myself."

      - Drew Barrymore

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James 5:13...
Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise.
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