Ep 144 A Legacy of Loneliness vs Solitude: One is Negative, One is Necessary

Today we talk loneliness vs solitude—a topic as painful as it is shameful. No one wants to admit (out loud) they may have difficulty making friends, keeping friends, feeling loved with a full dance card every Friday and Saturday night, and lunch date on Wednesday. 

As one of the most extroverted people I know, I have still found myself lonely at times. I don’t like it. It’s a killing feeling. It’s different than solitude because it’s not by choice. And it sucks the joy out of life.

Look what Paul Tillich wrote:

"Language has created the word 'loneliness' to express the pain of being alone. And it has created the word 'solitude' to express the glory of being alone."

We all need some solitude, some of you more than others. That’s the good, the positive part about being alone.

We need solitude so we can make our lists, to evaluate our accomplishments, to pray for our families, to read a good book, to get re-energized, to be still know that God loves us and to remember that God is in control. Yes, we do.

Jesus modeled that for us: stealing away from the crowds and even from his 12 best friends to be alone with His Father.

But solitude is not the same kind of aloneness as loneliness.

Loneliness is negative, solitude is necessary.

 

Loneliness can hit you in a crowded courtyard after church or surrounded by family or in a marriage, even a good marriage.

Listen today to hear what we can do when feeling isolated and alone. 

 

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When I host, it can be categorized as sanctified self-serving since sometimes I need company as much as the guests need to be my company. 

If you're wondering how to get started, here are 25 Theme Gathering Ideas to get your creative juices running. Email me if you have any questions. I believe I've done them all.