Starving in the Land of Plenty

Why do so many people say that they are lonely? Why do we feel like we’re starving in the land of plenty? We appear to be more connected than ever. Unlike the young ladies in the early 1960's radio hits, we no longer have to "sit by the telephone" hoping our love interest (or at least a good friend) gives us a call. We are connected through text messages, cell phones, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, internet dating sites, and other social media. But real loneliness does not stem from not having other people around. It comes from not being able to communicate essential parts of who we are, our real essence, to others. Loneliness comes when we feel hesitant to be our true self around our family. Loneliness comes when essential parts of our being are judged and criticized. Loneliness comes from holding views that we are afraid to admit to our friends and family. 

We begin to feel less lonely when we see rejection as an important redirection. Why keep hoping for appreciation from the people who have hurt you the most? Move on. It's their problem they don't appreciate your gifts. But if you keep begging for acceptance, then it becomes your problem. Your purpose in life has nothing to do with the opinions of others. Live from your center and move forward until you find people who do accept you exactly as you are. Avoid people who insist that you shrink and feel small. There are plenty of people who will appreciate you, the real you. It's time to grow. 

This essay is from my book, Keep Reaching For Your Happiness, available from Amazon and from Etsy at JoeGormanAuthor, and at Sunshine Flower Shop.