All of us have experienced social isolation during the pandemic. That is an objective state. Loneliness is a subjective state when we feel detached from others. Solitude is being at peace with being alone.

These are the sort of feelings that are part of being lonely:

There are also several dimensions to loneliness:

The Intimate aspect of loneliness is the emotional level. The Relational aspect considers the quality of our individual friendships. The Collective aspect reflects on being part of a network of individuals with a shared purpose. Being active in Rotary helps to give us the sort of collective connection that overcomes loneliness.

The challenge during the pandemic has been to find ways to counteract loneliness. The above makes several suggestions, not all of which any one person is likely to undertake. As the slide says, "Set realistic goals." One of the most significant ways to help is to help others who may be lonely.

This final slide of the presentation reminds us that we can help others who are lonely. It also reminds us that there is a hotline we can call if our loneliness threatens to become overwhelming.

Dr. Ferrand's presentation touched many if not all of us present. The last year has been challenging to us as individuals and as part of various groups which have not been able to gather as we were accustomed. Part of the service we can give is to reach out to others in a way that reminds them that someone still cares and that we will be around when we can be together.