Dear Lyfteenites,
Have you ever found yourself surrounded by friends, classmates, or even family, yet still feeling lonely deep inside? I know I have. It’s a strange, almost silent kind of loneliness, the kind that whispers, “You don’t really belong here” or “No one truly gets you.” If you’ve felt this way, you’re definitely not alone.
I remember a time during a high school event when everyone was laughing and chatting, I was right there in the crowd but felt completely invisible. I smiled, made small talk, and even laughed along, but deep down, I felt disconnected. I went home that day feeling so empty and asking myself why. It was then I realized that loneliness isn’t always about being physically alone; sometimes it’s about feeling emotionally unseen or misunderstood.
The first thing I want you to know is that feeling lonely doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It’s a human experience, and it’s more common than you might think. Even Jesus felt lonely, remember in Matthew 26:36-46, when He was in the Garden of Gethsemane? His closest friends fell asleep, leaving Him alone during one of the hardest moments of His life. Yet, He turned to His Father in prayer, showing us where to find comfort.
Once I started to feel like no one “got me,” I leaned into prayer and journaling. Jotting down my thoughts helped me process what I was feeling, and work on my emotions. Talking to God, even when my words felt messy or uncertain, helped me remember that He’s always there, always listening. Psalm 34:18 says, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” This verse was like a lifeline on days when my loneliness felt overwhelming.
Another thing that helped was reaching out to someone I trusted. It might feel scary to admit you’re feeling lonely, but being honest with a friend, youth leader, or parent can be freeing. Sometimes they’re feeling the same way, and your courage to speak up could open the door to deeper, more authentic connections.
I also started practicing gratitude, which might sound simple, but it really shifted my mindset. Every night, I’d list three things I was thankful for, whether it was a good conversation, a sunny day, or even just making it through the day. This helped me focus on what I had, rather than what I felt was missing.
So Lyfteenites, loneliness may come and go, but it doesn’t have to define your life. You are seen, you are loved, and you are never truly alone. God walks with you, even when others don’t seem to notice. And when you feel brave enough to open up, you’ll often find that connection more closer than you think.
With love and understanding,
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