Hi everyone, Kohaku here. I hope you all had a great week!
A couple of weeks ago, when talking about 「HIRAETH」, I briefly discussed the topic of homesickness. Today, on a slightly related topic, I want to talk about the feeling of loneliness.
It’s easy to feel lonely. As is said, we’re social animals, and when our social circles are taken away from us (or if they are nonexistent in the first place), we hurt. For some, it’s especially painful, and there are also some people who just feel lonesome very easily. As we go through life, it’s important to actively seek out and maintain a social network that is open-hearted, loving, and genuine so that we can avoid feelings of loneliness.
Often when I’m out with my friends or family, I’m suddenly struck with appreciation for this community that surrounds me. At the beach watching the sunset with loved ones by my side – are these not the moments that make life worth living? Of course, the problem is when some people are for whatever reason denied such moments. But others actively choose to avoid them. There is value there, too. In the end, I think it takes a special kind of strength to live life alone.
Homesickness, loneliness, sadness, and depression – all of these feelings are connected. And in the reverse, they are also connected to feelings of having a home, having community, being happy, and being content. These connections and complexities are what I’ve been exploring recently in my writing. I’ll be moving forward with these themes in mind.
This week, value the community that surrounds you. Call your friends and family, go out together, and have a good and meaningful time. If you don’t have a social group and you’re feeling lonesome, take some risks and try to create one. And if you know someone who has been denied a community, reach out to them yourself. You could save a life – really.
Take care,
KT
Living as Kohaku 
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