When you’re lonely, it’s easy to become focused on how you feel. You feel sad and you keep waiting for someone to connect with you. But what if you flipped the script? What if instead of waiting for someone to reach out, you took that first step?
The truth is you may not be the only one feeling lonely in your community. In fact, you’re probably surrounded by more than one person who longs for connection. There are other singles in your community you haven't met yet. When I was single and moved to a new location from the San Gabriel Valley to the San Fernando Valley in the Greater Los Angeles Area, I prayed to God to meet good friends. Several people also wanted to meet new friends. So, we all met and helped start a Young Adult Ministry group.
You can make a difference. You can turn your loneliness into an invitation. Consider doing one of these three activities next time you’re feeling lonely…
Set Up a Coffee Date
Reaching out can be as simple as setting up a coffee date with someone else. Invite a college student, an elderly neighbor, or a friend you haven’t seen in a while. Make it your treat and spend some time chatting together.
If you don’t know how to get the conversation rolling, start with a question. A few good questions might include:
· Who in your life are you closest to? What makes that relationship strong?
· If you could give a million dollars to charity, which one would you choose? Why?
· What’s the best lesson you’ve learned this past year?
· What’s your favorite hobby? Have you completed a recent project you can share with me?
Do Dinner Together
Connecting with others can be as simple as setting an extra place at the table. Ask a new co-worker to join you. Call a family in need and invite them over. Tell a senior citizen that you’d enjoy their company at dinner.
If you have the time and think your guest might enjoy it, bring out a board game or puzzle after the meal. Both of these activities are good ways to get to know your guest and learn about their personality.
Start a Sweet Tradition
Another way to welcome more community into your life is to start a tradition of having dessert together each week. This can be a dessert you’ve prepared yourself like homemade chocolate chip cookies. But it could also be store bought treat like pie or ice cream.
For your dessert night, you could invite someone in the military who doesn’t have family in the area. Ask a new neighbor to share dessert. Let a single parent know they’re invited for dessert and welcome their kids to join you if they can’t get a sitter.
Call the people you wish would call you. Let go of the idea that they should be the one to call next and be the person who initiates contact. Remember, some people only need an invitation. So, find the courage to reach out and invite others to receive your hospitality.
One of my friends on Facebook posted this tip: "Be the friend who makes the plans, don’t wait for others to do it." Another person commented that your friends appreciate when you do that. Now, don't stay lonely. Take the first step and contact someone to get together.
