A friend asked, What’s wrong with me? I am part of a marriage and a family, yet, I feel so isolated.
Here are some of my immediate thoughts.
- You feel (alone) isolated because you practice isolating thoughts and behaviors.
- You isolate. Then people think you want to isolate. So, they leave you alone to isolate. It’s a cycle.
- You probably isolated to survive as a child. Isolating was a way to protect yourself.
- Today, you are a grown man who is still using a childhood survival strategy. It confuses you and everyone around you.
Good news! That old, growing-up, difficult situation, that started you isolating, ended long ago. You are now free to start a new program.
God is giving you fresh eyes to examine an old issue.
Being scared and isolating has been a lifelong battle. You must fight and win. Or, die being that scared, hiding, pretending little boy.
New thoughts
- You were made for connecting.
- Isolating will keep you alone, restless and dissatisfied.
- You might want to offer up this prayer.
- “Father, I have been isolating since childhood. But I will not isolate today.”
- Tell family and friends, “I am a recovering isolator!”
- Change. Look for small moments of pleasure–being with yourself, God, wife, family, and friends.
- Start some conversations with this statement.
- “I am a very good isolator. Today, my life changes. I’m going to practice more connecting, And, I’m starting with you!”
By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. (Meaning your deep connection with each other.)
John 13:35 (comment added)
Prayer
Father, isolating is killing me. And hindering those around me. Please be Lord of my isolating place. Bring comfort to my inner, scared boy. Amen.