Perhaps you saw the recent announcement from Britain’s Prime Minister, Theresa May, of the appointment of a Minister of Loneliness. The announcement was met with significant contorting of faces. Despite a study coming out at the end of last year indicating as many as 14% of Brits battle chronic loneliness the idea of an official government appointment to address it seemed just odd.
Even so, some studies indicate as many as 43% of Americans suffer from regular loneliness. The impact of this reality upon us are not hard to miss. Exacerbated depression, premature death, isolation, hopelessness, and so much more. What’s the cure? Really only one thing: face-to-face community. We can send all the birthday greetings on Facebook we want or mail an “I’m thinking of you card,” or even send a quick checking-in text. But nothing is really as effective as sitting across from another person and sharing a cup of coffee (or tea for our British friends).
What happens when we are across from one another? Life is transferred. A parent hears they are not crazy for the incredible frustration they are feeling. A widow senses she is not alone. A child hears they are loved. A man knows he has what it takes. A woman is empowered to speak truth. New skills are gained. Life is lived when we share who we are with those across from us.
Blessings,
Stephen