Only the Lonely

Loneliness can be a very unsettling feeling, rather, state of being, not only to the lonesome, but to the, well, unlonesome of the world as well. There isn't exactly a specific time when loneliness strikes, nor is there a button to turn it on or off; it's a fluid state of mind that comes and goes as it pleases.

Living in a world of iPods and facebook, we have all adopted a certain degree of loneliness that we are very comfortable and content with. In lay terms, this loneliness is known as 'personal space'; it's time for us to gather our thoughts, realize that we are the masters of our decisions and provides us with moments of escape from the people around us (and/or all associated problems). Being lonely isn't really as bad as it is perceived to be – getting through life with doses of loneliness or 'personal space' may actually help.

I feel the state of being lonely doesn't always need to be attached to negative connotations; it's something we choose to do to ourselves, to give us an excuse to act different. I have learnt a great deal about this from my own father – he had the choice between a)letting loneliness consume his every action and b) proceeding with an absolutely normal and fulfilling life, absolutely alone. He chose the latter, and though one might label him as 'lonely' and depressed, he effortlessly used that 'lonely' time as an opportunity to rediscover himself.

So, for all those out there who think they're feeling lonely, turn that loneliness around into a chance to get to know yourself a little better. And remember, as long as you make even the smallest effort to talk, someone is always willing to listen.