Imagine having the power to grant an aging soul just one more day of existence! Or, hopefully, many more days of a golden future. The thought of being able to do that for another fuels the heart with empathy and gratitude. Yet, as we peer behind the veil of reality, we find many elderly souls, and perhaps many younger, are quietly tethered to the cold reality of loneliness.
Loneliness extracts the vigor from the golden years that ought to shimmer with the essence of love, tender bonds, accumulated insight, and nostalgic memories. We all have the power to make a positive difference for someone, family, friends, and even casual acquaintances. Opportunities abound!
On 9/06/23, The New York Times shared the profound impact of loneliness:
"Loneliness crushes the soul…It is linked to strokes, heart disease, dementia, inflammation, and suicide; it breaks the heart literally and figuratively.”
“Loneliness is as deadly as smoking 15 cigarettes a day and more lethal than consuming six alcoholic drinks a day, according to the surgeon general of the United States, Dr. Vivek Murthy. Loneliness is more hazardous to health than obesity.”
As serious as loneliness is, 148 studies concluded that “social connections boost an individual’s survival odds over approximately the next seven years by about 50 percent.”
Scholars highlight social isolation and the absence of meaningful relationships as the prime villains fueling this epidemic of loneliness. The lack of heartfelt interactions casts a prolonged and chilling cloud over the heart. Yet, within that cloud, we can be light carriers for another.
The message rings with clarity: while not a magical power, we are each endowed with the ability to make a positive difference. By reaching out, we not only dissolve the shadows of loneliness but also shatter the veil of indifference.
Daily life brings an endless array of possible connections—each encounter we make is a gateway to touch a heart. Every day is a chance to lessen the grip of solitude that affects so many people within our reach: our families, friendship circles, book clubs, church, friendly interactions at banks, local stores, fellowship in men’s and women’s gatherings, and numerous other exchanges. Each exchange is a venture to dismantle the unvoiced barrier of solitude silently gripping so many people.
Within the bounds of our being lies a straightforward yet remarkable force—the essence of authentic connection. By extending a hand, engaging, empathizing, and showing sincere concern, we ignite a beacon of hope and foster a sentiment of belonging, paving a path to a rekindled existence. To brighten another's day could significantly extend their days. Considering the dire consequences of loneliness, the investment to brighten another’s day is small; the return can be immense!
The challenge for everyone, including myself, is to look for ways to make that investment daily!
Just One More Day—a simple act, yet encompassed within, is an infinite expanse of hope, affection, and exhilarating potential. Yes, one more day, and hopefully, many more—through the genuine, tender act of connecting, we each hold the key to lighten the load of loneliness and offer the prospects of a reenergized individual.
Do you know someone who just may be lonely? Take the opportunity to reach out and be a friend! Nothing to lose, much to gain!
Helene and I take every opportunity to brighten someone’s day. It’s always well received, and we are lifted as well!
With love,
Ron
Ron Roesler
October 2, 2023
