This week’s podcast looked at loneliness — especially the kind that creeps in as life changes and routines shift with age. It’s the kind that shows up when the house gets quieter: the kids are off to college, the grandkids live far away, maybe you’ve retired and no longer have the rhythm of work to anchor your days.
It’s easy to feel lonely in those moments. For some, it’s not an issue. But for many of us, it can be. It’s an odd kind of loneliness — not because you’re alone, but because things are different. There are people around you, but the shape of your days has changed. And maybe it’s not constant. Maybe it’s just this season of change asking for adjustment.
If you’ve been the one managing life — getting everyone where they need to go, making dinner, coordinating appointments — and suddenly you don’t have to anymore, that quiet can feel like a loss of purpose. Sometimes loneliness isn’t about being alone. It’s about not feeling as needed.
I’ve seen it in older women — in their 70s or 80s. I think many moms feel it too. They don’t want to be a burden to their children, yet those same children are often their primary circle. It becomes a tug of war: not wanting to impose, but still wanting to matter.
We all want to be worth connecting to. But sometimes, that means being the one to reach out first. If we want to be seen, we have to put ourselves where we can be seen. It takes effort to maintain those threads of connection — with friends, family, children. Don’t skip the breakfasts, the lunches, the phone calls. Those are lifelines.
When loneliness creeps in, take it as a signal — a tap on the shoulder reminding you to reach out. Say yes to the invitation. Or better yet, extend one. Show up for something that interests you. The connection starts there.
🌿 5 Gems for This Week
1. Something to Listen To:
🎧 We Can Do Hard Things — Episode on “The Power of Small Circles.”
A thoughtful conversation about rebuilding friendship networks as we age — and how intimacy often grows smaller, not weaker.
2. Something to Read:
📖 The Book of Delights by Ross Gay.
A short daily essay collection that reminds you to notice life’s quiet joys — perfect for slow mornings with coffee. Actually, this is in some ways my kindred spirit.
3. Something to Try:
💌 Reach out to one person you haven’t spoken to in a while — no agenda, just a hello. Sometimes connection starts with a single text.
4. Something to Watch:
📺 Grace and Frankie (Netflix).
Because laughter — and friendship in later life — is still the best medicine.
5. Something to Savor:
🍋 Cucumber salad with a little rice vinegar, sesame oil, and sea salt.
Simple, refreshing, and maybe a reminder that small comforts count too. If you like spice, slice a jalapeño or a Thai chili and add it to the salad.
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