“That’s nice, Mom. I’m happy for you guys and so glad the weather cooperated,” I answered into the phone, trying to sound excited at the replay of the family business’ fiftieth anniversary celebration. I was thrilled for them, I really was, but sad for me. I had missed yet another family celebration, and the loneliness factor was looming once again.

It had also loomed while we were in the military, positioned in various states far from home. There were new cultures and new traditions in each area, but none were as rich as the ones I grew up with. Still, I kept the sadness quiet, to myself. After all, military wives are supposed to be strong. Right?

Oh, I know what they say.
“You’re a military wife.
Be strong.
Don’t let them see you cry.
You chose this.”

Unlike the model military wife, though, I feel small and weak at times, even in this post-active duty stage. I don’t want to listen to what “they” say, I simply want to be real, to be me. And my guess is that I’m not alone. In fact, military wives are probably not alone in this. Women from various walks of life most likely hear the whispers that ring, “You’re missing it. They are living life without you.”  And loneliness looms.

But when God intervenes, as He did with me this weekend, He opens a new perspective.

Kristi, look at it from the perspective of why you’re here.

The Holy Spirit’s nudge was slight. His wisdom’s touch was gentle and loving. It was exact and quite distinct, bringing release then peace. His counsel was purporting a different view, one that left behind the everyday, worldly, what-about-me thinking. Instead of licking my wounds, His wisdom encouraged me to think about the why.  

Why were we here in the first place?

And the light bulb clicked.

Even though I didn’t love being away from my family, we had been called to this very place by the very God who created us. Every move our family had ever made had been proceeded by prayer, much prayer. We didn’t want to move outside of His will. We desired to be used by God and be stationed directly in the center of His plan for our lives.

Maybe it’s that way for you as well?

Remembering the purpose, the why, was all she wrote. Loneliness fled my scene and can in yours as well.

Life isn’t about us. It isn’t about the loneliness.

Life is about God. 

It’s about His purposes and plans.  
When the thankfulness volume is raised, God is praised.
And loneliness flees.

Today, if loneliness battles are raging inside you, think about the reason why. Why are you here?  Did God call you to this very time and very place? If so, then let the thankfulness volume be raised and watch God be praised. There are lives who need His touch, and you might very well be the one who is called to touch them, to spread the fragrance of Christ. My friend, bloom where God has planted you and leave loneliness behind.