“I’m not alone.”
It’s something you’ve felt when you go to a concert. When you show up for a cause you’re passionate about. When a friend comes to just sit next to you after a hard day.
These moments stick out because you look around and realize, “Hey, I’m not the only one!”
So why is it that, more than ever before, we feel alone?
10% of adults in the US reported feeling lonely every day. 30% of young adults (18-34) feel the same. 3x as many. Loneliness–which is not a physical ailment, but a feeling–can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, anxiety, addiction, dementia, and early death. Yikes.
The answer to this growing epidemic is simple and we’re walking away from it. We’re forgetting to plug in. The truth is that you are never alone. We’ve been given an advocate–in the form of the Holy Spirit–who lives in us. Always. (John 14:26)
A forever friend. It’s not trite. It’s truth. And you can lean on Him right now. Especially if you’re feeling lonely.