We‘ve all had times in our life when we’ve felt very alone and isolated; wishing we had someone to talk to, wishing we could be around someone who appreciates
our company, who wants to listen to us. Loneliness can be very painful, but it does help us realise one very important thing… We really do need each other.

We are social beings, and we get spiritually nourished through our connections to our friends. A network of people who care about you, to whom you matter as a human being… There is nothing more valuable on earth than this.

The goodwill and friendliness that we feel from others cannot be replicated or substituted by anything else. We need it more than we realise. It strengthens us, it makes us feel valued, and makes us want to extend kindness and friendship to all the people we know. This is how love grows within a human society. Without goodwill, life would be pure misery.

Human goodwill is a truly magnificent thing. And when you are part of a circle or a group of people (big or small) who all priorities goodwill, friendship, non-judgement and kindness, you will feel like you are part of something very precious and special. People say that money makes the world go round, but in truth it’s goodwill, love and friendship.

So given that this potential is always there for us to have a rewarding sense of friendliness and community in our lives, how can we get from our place of loneliness, isolation and insecurity to a place where we feel like we are a part of something that is nourishing us as sensitive human being? How do we leave our safe bubble behind and connect to something more expansive, more beautiful?

Firstly, you have to step outside of your comfort zone and be proactive in communicating with other people, either online or in person. If you sit on your own waiting and hoping for other people to contact you, you will often be disappointed. Send some messages to the people you already know, remind them that they mean something to you. Make the effort to keep your friendships alive, don’t let them die.

Reconnect with people you haven’t contacted for a while, and arrange to meet up if they live near you. Or perhaps be bold and connect with people who you don’t know so well; connect with a local group or network of friendly people.

We are the only ones stopping ourselves doing this, and thus denying ourselves the friendship and connection we really need. Don’t isolate yourself anymore, because there is something good and beautiful within you that other people will see if you will just show yourself. Take a risk..

And let me tell you this with absolute certainty… good, strong, caring friendships are the most valuable things you can create in your lifetime. They will nourish you and support you throughout your entire life, if you feed into them and value them above all the material things. Friendship is a precious, precious thing.

People who know you well, who see your value and who genuinely care about you are like angels in your life. But such friendships can only grow and develop if we are open, and we communicate more with people. Show others who you are: let people see your vulnerability, your sensitivity, the goodness in your heart. If we make an effort to build open and honest friendships, we will always feel wealthy and blessed.

Because what is there in this life can be a substitute for sharing laughter and joy with friends? What can be a substitute for being heard by someone who cares, when you really need to be heard? There is no substitute. We really need eachother.

So remember, the ball is always in your court. Decide to make the effort and take the time to communicate with people, old and new. Make friends and grow friendships that could last you a lifetime and enrich your life immeasurably.

Be a good friend to others, and remind people that they matter to you. Reach out to someone if you can see they need help and support. Let your heart be in the driving seat.

http://AlexanderBell.org