Answer: Loneliness is a common feeling among
teens. The teen years are filled with many emotional ups and downs.
But there are a number of ways you can replace loneliness with
encouragement and friendship. Begin by asking God to help you.
He listens to those who seek Him. He will find ways to encourage
you. You could ask God to send more friends into your life, at
church and at school. One principle that helps in this regard
is to make yourself friendly to others (Proverbs 18:24). Say "hi"
to others your own age and start conversations with them. You
might be surprised to know how many other teens want someone to
begin a conversation with them.
You can also attend the United Youth Camps in the summer and
winter. Camp is one of the best places to make friendships with
other teens who are also going through similar situations. Once
camp is over, be sure to write other campers so you can continue
your friendships. Local church services may also allow you to
develop contacts with other teens. If your local congregation
has few teens, perhaps you can begin e-mail correspondence with
others. In addition, United has a special Web page that lists
coming teen activities and resources at http://www.ucgyouth.org/.
Ask your parents if your family can travel to other congregations
occasionally so the entire family can meet others. The Feast of
Tabernacles is also a great time to meet others your own age.
If you can, phone other teens from time to time to stay in touch.
Almost every teen at one time or another feels lonely. People
need people and teens need other teens. As a commercial for a
telephone company put it, "Reach out and touch someone."
If you actively seek friendships with other teens, you will feel
less lonely and cut off from others.
