To me, loneliness is a lot like the flu. I catch it every two or three years, usually after being exposed to other people. It’s annoying, distracting, and painful for about a week. Then my body’s defenses kick in and I get over it.

Would I rather not get infected in the first place? Sure. But, realistically, it’s impossible to avoid completely. The best I can do is keep myself away from situations where I might be exposed, and keep my defenses as strong as possible, so that the next bout will be as mild as I can make it.

Apologies for being maudlin; I’m just getting over something.