Lonliness

"Lonliness is a mask."  I have thought and thought about what that means.  I asked God to explain to me...this is what I came up with.

There is a difference between being alone and being lonely. 
There are times when we are physically alone.  Some of those times are great and needed, while others are very difficult and we wish we were anywhere but.  But we are never really "alone".  God is there.  Friends and family are a phone call away.  Where would we be without internet and cell phones?!?!  Being alone can be very healing.  It is how you choose to handle it.

Being lonely is more of a feeling.  Experiencing lonliness happens to all of us at different points in our lives.  We can experience lonliness for a loved one, the loss of something that once was, emotional lonliness, at times, spiritual lonliness, lonliness for those who are away or gone.  Lonliness in my mind is more difficult to handle than being alone. 

THe only thing I have found that works in dealing with lonliness is to pray, cry, and talk to family.  In my divorce care group, lonliness and being alone are all a part of the grieving process.  Each time we step back into the lonliness part of the cycle, it gets a bit easier. 

Last night I said good bye to my children for the next 8 days.  I was alone when I got home and it was only me.  I began to feel very lonely.  I picked up my book "Broken into Beautiful" by Gwen Smith.  I was reminded that I am never alone.

Where can I go from your Spirit?  WHere can I flee from your presence?  If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.  If I rise on the wings of dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast.  Psalm 139:7-10

Gwen says God is inescapable.  HE loves you and He sees you.  He is available to help you face trials with a courage that is firmly rooted in His strength and power so others might be drawn to Him and know His grace.

Lord, I thank you for allowing me this "alone" time to heal.  I know you are by my side, I know my family and friends are right there also to keep me moving forward.  I will miss my children greatly, but I will use this time to get some things in order and be ready to be more clear and less stressed when my children return.  Please keep them safe in your arms and spread your love and comfort to others who are feeling lonely or are alone this Christmas.  Guide us to reach out to them and brighten their Christmas.  In Your name we pray, Amen