ADDRESSING LONELINESS

Loneliness, and how it is affecting every generation, is being discussed much more openly. This is a good thing, as it is important we meet and compassionately address whatever we are experiencing, whether it is easy or difficult; whether we feel happy or sad; with love and wisdom.  

The more mature of us often find ourselves alone in our homes, not able to get out and meet people or engage with life. The younger generation are often caught up with AI and social media yet also experience loneliness; as they are not engaging with people in person, either. It is described as one of the big problems in the UK today. 

So, what can we do in Unity to help? Are you struggling with loneliness? Do you feel isolated from life? Do you have loved ones, friends or neighbours who might also be caught up in a lonely pattern of living? 
Well, we have come up with a ‘Community’ page on the website to engage you lovely people. And perhaps even share with those around you. 

Rosie Coulton, one of our regular online participants, is offering to create a place where people can share their artwork, around a different theme each month. It can be drawing, painting, even sculpting or knitting! So often creative expression can bring us together in new and exciting ways. Would you like to get creative with Rosie? Check out the link below. 

We are also planning to re-start our Unity pen-pal network (by letter or email), to enable more personal conversations and build friendships within our Unity fellowship. 

Finally, we are also hoping to see the development of a WhatsApp group within our Unity community, which would be an amazing way to forge new friendships and creative connections, share Unity thoughts and how our Unity practices have blessed you. 

Do you have any more ideas? Are there any other ways that we can meet and exchange ideas and stories that are fun and creative and help beat loneliness? What would you like best to experience with us? 

Of course we have our existing online events, using Zoom, which have built up so excitingly over the past years. And we have found that the more people engage regularly with us, even on Zoom, the more we are building friendships and feel connected with each other. If you feel nervous about using Zoom, reach out and we can help you. 

In the meantime, do explore our new Community page on the website. And take part in all we offer to build community in Unity. 

Rev Kimerie Mapletoft
Director of Silent Unity and Daily Word UK