By nature, we are social creatures… There is a profound sense of “something missing” when we grieve. There are two words for today… Alone and Lonely. Understanding each word can help you know what you need in this moments.

Alone
Many people associate Alone with the isolation, not being with others. Other meanings can include the uniqueness of being the only one to experience or know of something or even to be without support.

Lonely
Lack of connection is at the heart of Lonely. Awareness of being visited or included are parts of Lonely.

Grief creates a unique experience of these two words.

Can you be at an event and experience isolated or not included?
Can you be surrounded with friends and family and not be connected?
Can you feel disconnected because you are the only one experiencing something in that moment?
Can you be in a conversation and be unsupported?

Alone and Lonely are synonyms and often used interchangeably. Sit with the differences and recognize for yourself how you experience each word.

Most Basic Terms:
Alone – Not being with others or supported; the only one.
Lonely – Lack of connection

Then think about what may help for when you experience alone or lonely.

How do you relate? Feel free to share…