Another solid piece here, Ben. This is close, really close. If we zoom in a little closer we’ll find that loneliness at its core is feeling that no one finds any value in what one has to say. We’ve all had conversations with friends about the most inconsequential things from hangnails to the growth of rogue hair. The value isn’t in the topic of conversation, the value lies in the person who is actively listening. We show that the other person is of value when we give them both our time and our attention. Those two actions say unequivocally, Hey, you’re worth me putting my phone down and giving you my undivided attention. There’s value in me spending time with you. When it’s reciprocal, it’s a genuine connection and loneliness is abated.

It’s weird. When we stop focusing on our own wants and needs, and instead turn our attention to others, we ultimately end up not only having our own needs met, but fulfilled to overflowing.

It all comes down to loving one another more than ourselves … for a moment or two.