Being Alone

Being alone is not a natural arrangement for human beings. We were all born into this world in unique relationship to another. If an infant is abandoned, it is considered to be a travesty. It isn't right. The same is true for adults. You never grow out of the need for relationship. While there is something to be said for being able to enjoy "alone time", it is a short term fix not a long term answer.

Unlike the created arrangement surrounding the birth of a child, relationship is not guaranteed for "adult children". As you grow older and mature in life, the need for relationship does not go away but the responsibility for creating those relationships shift. It moves from a Creator who provides for relationship to a human being needing to choose relationship.

Because you have been created into an experience initiated by love, you are provided the freedom in this life to choose love. In fact, in many ways, the reality of your freedom to choose relationship is love. Relationship with others will not be done to you unless you are found guilty of breaking some law of community or if you become a threat to others. Experiencing that kind of relationship is known as imprisonment.

On the other hand, you do have the power to choose relationship in this life. While it is easier and seemingly more convenient for some, it is true for us all. It just requires your choice and your response. You first have to accept the responsibility for creating them and then you are faced with the challenge of building them. It takes intention and the investment of time. They do not just happen nor are they guaranteed. They take work.

This time of year the tragedy of being alone is so clear. The heightened reality of depression among us presents itself. People who feel alone or those who actually find themselves alone for Christmas find themselves experiencing the reality of the tragedy to its fullest.

So, here are two thoughts for you to remember this Christmas. Look for those who are alone and provide them with the gift of relationship. It will the greatest gift you could ever give. Give them you. And, remember the message of Christmas. Immanuel, "God with us". God's greatest gift to us all is the gift of His love. Remember it and receive it as the divine gift that does keep on giving. It really is the greatest gift of all. Do well my friends.