Feeling lonely became so familiar over the last year. If you had known what that feels like, that only intensified and those who were lucky not have felt lonely often got a taste of it - often much more than they were ready for. As can be expected, extroverts and introverts respond differently to this time of forced social isolation. Social and household structure would have their impacts as well. Students in college have been doing their best to preserve what they can of their life - being independent, living with friends and not parents, often away from home. Interesting read about what makes people feel lonely - why some are more susceptible to it that others.
Lonely people tend to use their imagination, memories, and hopes more, contend the researchers, in an effort to manage their isolation.
The more vivid this created world is, the better it helps the person escape reality. I know a few people in my life who have been able to do that and make living alone seem natural and easy. They thrive in that state in a way I never could - it is as it they don't suffer a handicap many of us to - the need to have company, have contact with others on a regular basis. The source of energy for them is this bright inner world that no one else has access to. It definitely sounds magical and something I have always been envious of.
My friend S is an example of someone who seems to have inexhaustible inner resources. Not only has she thrived in these difficult times, she is even able to support the rest of us who need some of what she has. When we chat on video sometimes, she reminds me of a monk - serene and happy amid the chaos of the world, connected to an invisible and infinite power source.
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