Loneliness is hazardous to our health. Everyone feels alone sometimes. In fact, it’s perfectly normal

to want to be alone at times. However, it’s never normal to feel a chronic sense of loneliness. Studies

have shown that a chronic sense of loneliness can increase chances of an early death by 14%.

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After experiencing the death of a loved one, too often it can be easy to slip into a chronic type of

loneliness. It’s not even about being physically alone but it feels that way. Experts tell us we don’t have

to be physically absent from other people to feel alone. We can actually feel alone in a crowd.

“Loneliness”, says noted psychologist and author Dr. Guy Winch “… is an entirely subjective state, in which

we feel socially and/or emotionally disconnected from those around us.” Knowing that loneliness is a subjective

state is very important; it means we can do something about it.

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Just as experts have figured out we can feel alone even when we’re not, the great truth of our human

existence is we’re never really alone because God is with us. As I mentioned in the last chapter, every

human being carries within them the breath of God. If that’s true, and I believe it is, then why don’t

we feel God with us? Why are there times, like in the midst of grief, that we feel utterly and completely

alone, even though we aren’t? The answer to that question will take a little explanation. Please allow

me to get a bit theological with you here in order to help us better understand the presence of God in

our life. READ MORE