The Only One in a Crowd

Have you ever felt as if you were the only one in a crowd?

If you're like me, we can be surrounded by the masses, yet still feel as if we are the only one in the room.

We run, run, run, go, go, go. For us moms, we balance our kids, our husband, hobbies, clubs or organizations, our church life, and for those who work outside the home, our job. We are surrounded by people whether it be in traffic, at Walmart, sitting on the bleachers at a football game, or in the pew on Sunday morning, yet...

We...can...feel...so...all...alone!

I am an introvert by nature. That doesn't mean I hate being around people, nor does it mean that I am anti-social or snobbish. What it does mean is that I tend to be more quiet in a crowd and thrive more on alone time.

But here is where it gets hard. Life just continually puts us in social situations. Not a bad thing, but for us quiet people, it can be the loneliest part of our lives.

We can feel as if we are the only ones in the crowd; the odd ball out in a pool of fantastically wonderful social butterflies. Painful!

Just recently, I again experienced this first hand. Rick and I were invited to a large social fundraising event. There were groups of people everywhere milling about, talking and laughing and enjoying limitless conversation.

My husband, being the social butterfly that he is, God love him, was flitting around here and there, while I painfully tried to make small talk with the few at our table. I assure you, I was feeling a tad lonely. Not that I wasn't surrounded by great company, but that my inner insecurities and quiet nature hindered me from stepping forward and joining in the fun and festivity.

Yet, I had to remind myself of two things, 1) I am created in God's image. His Word tells me that I am fearfully and wonderfully made; and 2) I am never really alone.

God tells me in the words He spoke to Joshua, "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." 

So what is a quiet, introvert like myself to do in a situation of loneliness in a crowd?

Step out. Expand your wings. Take steps to be an encouragement to someone. Will it be hard? By all means, Yes! It will be excruciating! Lol. But God never calls us to do the easy things, amen?

I know that God and I still have a lot of work to do within my personality, but I do know that even in those times of loneliness, I am truly not alone, for I have one that "sticks closer than a brother," who walks beside me and tells me I am His!

Today, friend, don't focus on the loneliness, but focus on the One who gives fulfillment and purpose to even the most quiet wallflower. 

Blessings to you,

Kristi