The Energy of Loneliness: Why We Feel Sad When Alone

During moments of solitude, many experience a profound sense of sadness that can be overwhelming. This sadness is not a reflection of a lack of self-worth or enjoyment of one’s own company but a complex interplay of our natural wiring, energy, and the human need for companionship.

Energy and Solitude

According to physicist and philosopher Albert Einstein, everything is composed of energy. He posited, 'Everything is energy and that’s all there is to it. Match the frequency of the reality you want and you cannot help but get that reality. It can be no other way.' This perspective implies that loneliness, like any other experience, emanates from an inherent frequency or energy. The energy we lack when isolated can manifest as loneliness. However, the misalignment of this energy can lead to a problematic state of sadness.

Albert Einstein’s quote, 'Although I am a typical loner in my daily life my awareness of belonging to the invisible community of those who strive for truth, beauty and justice has prevented me from feelings of isolation,' highlights the potential to find comfort and belonging even in solitude. This is especially true for those who feel a deep connection to a broader community of like-minded individuals.

The Absence of Energy and Loneliness

Rene Descartes, the father of modern philosophy, shared that 'Except our own thoughts, there is nothing absolutely in our power.' This statement underscores the limitations of our control over external circumstances, including isolation. However, it also suggests that our thoughts and responses to these circumstances can shape our experience of loneliness. When our thoughts are isolated and unacknowledged, it can lead to feelings of sadness in the absence of energy.

Exploring Sadness Through Solitude

Loneliness, especially the deep form of sadness it can evoke, is often overlooked or misunderstood. It is a complex emotion influenced by our surroundings, thoughts, and beliefs. For instance, the feeling of being a 'living dead person' or being in the middle of the woods with unseen animals can lead to a sense of numbness and isolation. This is further exemplified in our preference for being at McDonald's late at night, where the comfort of being somewhere is more tolerable than being alone at home.

At McDonald's, we can observe and hear the staff, which distracts from the overwhelming silence of our thoughts. This act of observation and the movement of external elements can serve as a buffer against the sadness we feel. However, the isolation and numbness in our thoughts are a significant contributor to loneliness. The mind, when left unattended, can amplify the sadness and create a sense of being overwhelmed.

How to Cope with Loneliness

To cope with the deep sadness and loneliness, it is essential to acknowledge the reality of our situation and find ways to manage it. Here are some strategies:

Find Comfort in Community: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your values and aspirations. Join communities, groups, or clubs that align with your interests. Acknowledge and Accept Boredom: Understand that boredom is a natural part of life and not inherently life-threatening. Embrace it as an opportunity for personal growth and introspection. Engage in Purposeful Activities: Find activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. These activities can be creative pursuits, physical exercise, or engaging in meaningful work. Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness practices to bring awareness to your thoughts and feelings. This can help you manage the numbness and loneliness more effectively.

Ultimately, loneliness can be a poignant reminder of our human need for connection and belonging. By understanding and addressing its root causes, we can find ways to navigate and transform our experiences of sadness and loneliness into moments of growth and rejuvenation.

Biblical Perspective on Loneliness

From a biblical perspective, loneliness can also be seen as a way to draw closer to God. Psalm 23:24 (KJV) states, 'He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil: for thou art with me, thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.'

This verse suggests that even in loneliness, we are not alone. God provides comfort and guidance, which can help us navigate through difficult times. By aligning ourselves with the source of true energy and purpose, we can find strength and solace in the midst of loneliness.

In conclusion, the sadness we feel when alone is a complex interplay of our natural need for companionship and the energy that surrounds us. By understanding and addressing these factors, we can find ways to cope with loneliness and emerge stronger and more connected to ourselves and others.