This has been a difficult weekend for me.  It is the weekend of our 35 anniversary.  Anniversaries are not a time to be alone.  It is a time when most people want to be with their spouse, and we are no different.  I know a lot of people ended up being separated on their anniversaries.  Some of the reasons may include work,  military, or incarceration.  Many people may enjoy a special dinner, or have other ways of celebrating the special occasion.

There are times when one desires time alone.  Some, especially if they have small children, never seem to have any time to themselves.  Others may find more time alone than they ever thought they wanted.  One of the loneliest places is when one is alone in a crowd of people.  That crowd doesn’t have to be big, just  big enough for one to feel out of place.  Then there are the times like I started this with… the times when one wants to share an experience with.

How does one handle loneliness?  Each situation is different. Every person is different as well.  Some might find one good cry is all they need.  Others. need to find some people they trust to be with.  If you know events are coming up that will be difficult, then maybe you can think in advance of tings that will help.  Sometimes one can make it worse by avoiding people and events that could help them get through it.  This is September.  Soon the holidays will be here.  It is my suggestion that you consider some things now that will make that time easier.  Think about which gatherings and events increase your lonely tendencies and which ones deter the feelings.  If those feelings become greater than you can handle, and you find yourself with self destructive thoughts, please get some help.  There are professional counselors, doctors, and clergy that can help.  Some areas have groups such as “Celebrate Recovery” that can be very beneficial.  You are to important, don’t let it get the best of you.