My life has dramatically improved in every single measurable aspect since my separation from my wife, back in the spring of 2018, save one; I experience profound loneliness despite having a robust social life complete with a number of friends, including three particularly close friends. I have been devoting a considerable amount of time to pondering the meaning and source of this uncomfortable state of being and casually searching the web for potential solutions to my apparently common problem. The Walt Disney approved, and Oprah endorsed solution to this phenomenon of course lies in romantic relationships. The sheeple all agree, find your ‘one’ and never be lonely again. This is patent non-sense as many a married man can tell you that marriage is no insulation from the realities of loneliness. By far the best information I have been able to find in my admittedly casual research into loneliness is by a YouTuber who soliloquises under the moniker of ‘Coach Red Pill’ (CRP).

I can’t be bothered to include a link in this write-up but a quick Google search will bring you to CRP’s material. CRP has made at least three, possibly more videos on loneliness. He seems to be a man well versed and experienced with the consequences of his personal loneliness. In one video in particular he helpfully defines what loneliness is through the moving application of an anecdote involving his relationship with his dog. Ultimately, CRP defines loneliness as a lack of a meaningful and deep connection with someone. Have you ever been in public with someone close to you and witnessed something so bizarre that you both looked at one another and instantly knew what the other was thinking? That’s the opposite of loneliness: loneliness defined by negation. CRP also helpfully prescribes a cure for loneliness. CRP suggests that the only way to overcome one’s loneliness is by finding a purpose or goal, working diligently towards that purpose or goal, and that as you do this people will eventually unite their efforts with yours if your goal or purpose is sufficiently meaningful.

Well, is loneliness a public health crisis as the mainstream media warns us, or is it simply part of the natural state of being a human being? If it is a problem for you individually, what do you do to find relief? If it isn’t a problem for you I envy you and want to know how you got to that zen-like state? Did you cure your loneliness, or simply come to accept it? If you took CRP’s advice, what is your purpose or goal in life? Have people joined you in its pursuit? Have meaningful friendships or even romantic relationships developed as a result?