It’s ironic that in our “connected” society, we can feel so disconnected from one another. Vivek Murthy, the 19th surgeon general of the United States, has called loneliness and isolation the most prevalent health issue in the country. Research indicates that chronic loneliness is associated with a range of physical and mental health issues, including increased stress, depression, and a compromised immune system.
Today’s Theme: Loneliness
Quote
“The most terrible poverty is loneliness and the feeling of being unloved.”
—Mother Teresa
“The issue was, and is, that men simply are not bonding much these days… and we are either purposefully choosing or unwittingly failing to make bonding…..a priority.”
– John Eldredge in Wild at Heart
Article
The Friendless American Male
I have recently been enjoying the writings of Tom Greene. He presents essential truths in such an easy-going yet practical way. Today’s article is no exception. Although it specifically mentions the white American male, the truths here are applicable across the cultural spectrum. I hope you enjoy his challenge as much as I have.
https://tomgreene.com/blog/the-friendless-american-male
Questions
Tom Greene quotes singer Vanilla Ice: “It’s about enjoying your life. If you have no family, no friends to enjoy it with, it don’t matter how much you have, how much success you have, how much fame you have, how much money you have. Ultimately, those things simply don’t matter.”
- How much do you agree?
- How many friends do you REALLY have?
- Who are your closest friends?
- Who might you call today? Just reach out and ask how they are doing.
Determine that you’ll not become a health or social statistic. Be intentional and strive to embody true genuine friendship. Begin today!