On Self-Love and Loneliness

Loneliness is not a state of being, but rather a feeling.

Some people who live solitary lives do not experience this feeling, while others who are constantly surrounded by people still feel a deep sense of isolation and loneliness.

We can only expose ourselves to others as deeply as we have delved into our own identities.

And this takes patience, practice and persistence.

If we cannot be genuine with ourselves in solitude, how can we expect to portray that truthfulness when others are around?

It's the whole oxygen mask on first concept right. Embrace and love ourselves first so we can be comfortable with those around us.

The idea that you must love yourself before loving others is rooted in the belief that until we fully embrace all aspects of ourselves, we will continue to hide them from those around us. As a result, we become less visible and understood by others, leading to a diminished ability to be loved for our true selves.

In my short time on this earth, loving myself first is a learning. An ongoing one.

If I waited until I did that first and embraced all of me, of course it would be quite a lonely road!

I also know I process many of my thoughts, emotions, processes verbally. So getting into conversation with another is a bit part of that self-love aspect and not loosing my mind and myself in the process.

Now, don't get me wrong, losing yourself is also impossible. But for me, locking myself away is also way too easy. If I ever hope to feel the love I truly deserve, I must be willing to loosen the lock and get going, rain, hail or shine.