The Loneliness Investigation
Look! Squirrel! #3
Commentary
When we feel lost or alone, the mind assumes there must be a reason. It begins searching for explanations, diagnoses, mistakes, deficiencies, and evidence. The more painful the feeling, the harder the mind works to explain it. But sometimes the feeling itself is not a puzzle to solve. Sometimes what we most need is connection, not explanation.
The squirrel does exactly what the mind does best: it treats loneliness like a mystery that requires an investigation. Within seconds, a simple human feeling becomes a sprawling web of theories, causes, and worst-case interpretations. The squirrel isn't being malicious. It genuinely believes that if it can just find the correct explanation, the feeling will disappear.
The Flower Capybara's response lands because it completely sidesteps the squirrel's investigation. Instead of offering another theory, solution, or reassurance, it offers presence.
Question: When I'm hurting, do I spend more energy explaining the feeling than allowing myself to be with it?
Comments
If something in this resonated with you, please share your perspective. What stood out? And if you've lived through something similar, your experience might add a whole new layer to this conversation, for others as much as for yourself.