We all face so many different types of sicknesses, as well as deadly diseases. The milder ones are easily treated with medication or even with home remedies, whereas in serious cases people tend to suffer, specially when they become chronic and need to be treated by doctors on regular basis. More often than not, it’s a nightmare for the patient and the family as well when we fall sick and we all know the consequences if it’s left unattended.
In today’s world of technology and mini-families,one of the worst illnesses encountered by men and women alike is loneliness. Although we are all connected to each other by means of social media and phones, we still feel lonely. In fact studies have revealed that loneliness is one of the leading factors in deaths today. Sadly loneliness is associated with negative feelings towards oneself which we seek to validate from others for our well being. We all want to share our feelings and thoughts with others. This is all the more true in case of elderly people and those passing through their twilight moments of life. When we are left to fend for ourselves, all alone in solitude, we realise that our needs are not met leading to the sunken feelings of confusion and helplessness. These feelings precisely lead us to major health issues like depression and many a times even thoughts of suicide. I would analise loneliness as the lack of self love and our desire to be heard and seen by others, specially other members of our family. Net effect would be feeling lonely and unwanted in this world. Many of us are driven to these situations because of the small-family set up and the present changes in the socio-cultural and economic fields. Migration by family members to other countries for better prospects and other various reasons has added to this scenario. So what do we do to at least minimise this problem? In the first place, let us admit that being lonely is the way we treat ourselves. Let us accept the situation as it is and feel compassion and love for oneself. In doing so we will not feel the need for OTHER. Buddha once said,”When treasure is in the house, why do you go begging everywhere?”What matters is the way you enjoy your own company. It is the way you talk to yourself and treat yourself. Be your own boss, do what you like to do, sleep for as long as you wish, nurture your hobbies and make good use of the time at your disposal. Most importantly be positive and with full faith and trust in God, enjoy your balance stay in this world.
Until we meet again
Felix Dias
Editor