In the US, the share of adults who live alone has nearly doubled over the last fifty years. This rise of “living alone” started in early-industrialized countries over a century ago, then accelerated around 1950.
This fact is especially relevant in a coronavirus-compelled
day of social distancing and “sheltering at home.”
New Yorker writer Robin Wright adds her perspective: “Psychologists note the difference between living alone and loneliness. I live alone and have no family, and usually don’t think much about it. But, as the new pathogen forces us to socially distance, I have begun to feel lonely. I miss the ability to see, converse with, hug, or spend time with friends. Life seems shallower, more like survival than living.”
The internet is filled with advice on making the most of
these days. I heard Dr. Phil on television suggesting that couples use this
time to deepen their marriages and play games with their children. Schools and
educational resources are offering unprecedented options for children. We can
visit more sites around the world through virtual technology than ever.
One way of redeeming social distancing I have not seen in
the media, however, is countercultural in the extreme: let’s embrace the
solitude, at least for periods of time and seasons during this season. And
let’s use it as a time to grow closer to our Father than ever before.
What comes first with God
The strategy I have in mind comes from God himself.
The Book of Exodus includes a series of instructions from the
Lord to his people as they are journeying toward their Promised Land. In chapter
31, he concludes a long set of instructions regarding ethical guidelines, the
consecration of the high priest, and the construction of the tabernacle.
Then he concludes with the phrase, “Above all” (v.
13a). What would come “above all” that he has revealed to them? What
would he list as their highest priority? Would he remind them of…
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