Loneliness is an emotion that tells us it’s time to bring people into our lives. Some people boast about being independent and self-reliant, but if they are so, they are probably somewhat lonely. A healthier, happier soul seeks to be interdependent. As we selflessly extend ourselves for another, we realize we are also gaining something for ourselves. We need each other. It’s okay to need each other. We are not weak if we recognize it—rather, we are probably strong and healthy. While we all find it extremely unkind to “use” each other, it is right and wise to realize that we are mutually useful to each other.
Incidentally, this usefullness isn’t a measurable give-and-take thing. I give hours of emotional support to a friend, for example, and then she comes through for me in numerous unexpected ways. But even if she didn’t surprise me by taking care of my kids when I’m in a crunch or by teaching me how to make brussel sprouts that taste amazing, I still always feel blessed after helping her. It’s a mystery really. A very fulfilling one.
