“In the Land of Lonely”

"In the Land of Lonely"

I pace

round the base of Desolate Mountain
misty peaks crouched over
ragged pilgrims unprepared
scattered
huddled small before
ruthless winds that shriek and taunt

when do I intervene?

kicking rocks aimlessly

when do I step back?

climbing over branches

when might it be too late?

shuffling through snow 

how do I trust God here?

imploring blizzardy skies
for mercy
for unburdening
wondering what help is mine to offer
or not
surrendering tomorrows
at a level yet untried
praying Hope will find my beloveds 
so pinned by darkness

praying they will let themselves be found.

©2025 Wendy Lew Toda

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The World Health Organization (WHO) Commission on Social Connection has released its global report revealing that 1 in 6 people worldwide is affected by loneliness, with significant impacts on health and well-being. Loneliness is linked to an estimated 100 deaths every hour—more than 871,000 deaths annually. Strong social connections can lead to better health and longer life, the report says.

Check on your friends and loved ones today. Don’t let anyone fade away. And don’t you fade away either. Reach out to someone. We all need each other.

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Image: Daniel M for Unsplash