Because We Have a Deep Struggle

There might not be anything more painful than profound loneliness.  It can be bound up with any number of issues like depression, anxiety, addiction, loss, relational struggles, etc.  But as badly as those things hurt, it is feeling utterly alone in the midst of our suffering that is unbearable.  But we think, “I don’t want anyone to see me like this!  I can’t tell anybody about this!”  It’s all too shameful.  So we hide.  Whether we’re by ourselves or around other people, we isolate ourselves in our pain.

But We Have a Deeper Longing

Something in us still longs to be known, to be seen as we are and loved in the midst of our pain and shame, and even to know and love others with the same compassion and grace.  It doesn’t seem possible when we’re hurting, but if it could be, we want it.  Perhaps even more than we want to keep hiding.

Asking for Help

It’s hard to ask for help.  It feels risky and humiliating.  But I’ve found that it’s worth it.  At times, I still have trouble opening up about my pain and shame, both with people I trust and with God.  But I have learned that healing, life, and joy cannot be found in isolation or in trying to fix myself, but only in mutual relationships of honesty, grace, and love.  It is there that hope begins, even when suffering remains.  It is there that the ache of loneliness starts to give way, as we learn to be known and to know others, to love and be loved, just as we are.  It is there, in relationships of authenticity and intimacy, that we find the courage to face our struggles, whatever they are, because we are not alone.

If this resonates with something deep inside of you, it would be an honor to meet you and begin a relationship.  I hope to hear from you soon.