In Solitude – But Not Alone
By Paul Riddle, Director of Spiritual Care, Lifeline Chaplaincy Houston
As the coronavirus pandemic has unfolded, social distancing – something most people were blissfully unaware of when this year began – has become a way of life for all of us. For no one is this truer than for hospital patients and their loved ones. The stress of dealing with a serious illness and the disruption of life that comes with any hospitalization – especially for those who are far from home – are compounded by strict limitations on in-person visitation. Contact with the outside world, except for medical providers, is often limited to visits via telephone or video links like FaceTime or Zoom.
In times like these, we are sustained by our core values and beliefs, the things that we consider to be foundational truths – things that help us make meaning of the situation we find ourselves in and give us a sense of significance. What’s sustaining you right now?
When I find myself in a place of adversity – especially when I’m feeling isolated, lonely, and anxious, I draw strength from the assurance the Lord gave to Joshua at the beginning of the Biblical book of the same name, when Joshua succeeded Moses as leader of the people of Israel: “I will not fail you or forsake you.” And later, “Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” For me, these words are more than an assurance to one individual; they are a reminder of God’s abiding presence, a sign that those who trust in God are never truly alone. Many times these words have given me bread for my journey through difficult times, and I hope they will sustain you as well.
