A Letter For the Lonely.

Earlier this month, I tried something new, I wrote a letter to a stranger…

There is this website called ‘Reasons to Stay’: https://reasonstostay.org

You can write letters as a volunteer for people experiencing loneliness, depression, or suicidal thoughts.

I wrote the following letter about loneliness. It wasn’t about being perfect, it was about giving hope and validation for these feelings. If you have some free time, I would recommend writing a letter (you can keep it totally anonymous) to help someone and give them a reason to stay.

Remember, if you are struggling and need urgent help the Samaritans (UK) have a 24/7 free helpline. Just call 116 123.

If you, or a love one is in immediate danger then call 999.

If you are feeling lonely then that’s okay. Take a little time to read my letter.

My name is Kay.

Firstly, it's okay to feel lonely. It isn't your fault. The world often feels overwhelming, like it's moving too fast. Our culture constantly uses media to tell us that we are not doing enough. We need to date, make friends, dress better and buy new products. But the truth is, you are more than enough. How do I know? Well, the media is there to make money from people, not for people. Sometimes people just need a little more time to grow and gain confidence. If you feel invisible, you just haven't met the right people yet.

I used to feel like this. I thought I needed to change myself to make friends, but I didn't. I just needed to look in different places and be patient. Focus on what makes you happy, a hobby(s), a song(s) and animal(s). The loneliness will lift and that person or group of people will find you. 

As for anyone that has ever made you feel lonely or left out, they are likely lonely themselves or in a headspace that they feel they can't share. You are already two steps ahead of them because you are here, reading this letter and confronting your true feelings.

Always be yourself, because guess what? There is only one of you. You are unique and exclusive. If anyone makes you feel otherwise, then they have their own problems.

Remember, who you are, and your unique gifts aren't always reflected in a mirror. Above all, you have love and kindness to share with this ever-changing world. People need to meet you, most of them just don't know it yet.

 Hold your head high. You've got this!

~~~

I’ll admit this isn’t the most poetic piece of writing. However, I hope the letter will reach someone who needs it and reassure them.

I have some more big news, which should be published by Disability Arts Online once they approve the blog.

Thank you for reading my modest journal entry and if you are a Writer of any kind, I wish you well with your work in progress.