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When you grow older a dreadful, horrible sensation will come over you. It's called loneliness, and you think you know what it is now, but you don't. Here is a list of the symptoms, and don't worry - loneliness is the most universal sensation on the planet. Just remember one fact - loneliness will pass. You will survive and you will be a better human for it.

Douglas Coupland#15

GrowthLonelinessResilienceSurvival

About this quote

What does it mean?
Loneliness is a universal human experience that worsens with age but ultimately leads to personal growth and survival.
In plain terms
Loneliness is common and painful but you will survive it and become stronger.
What can you take from it?
Endure loneliness knowing it passes and makes you stronger.

Where it applies

  • late nights
  • moving to a new city
  • breakups

Putting it to work

  • seeking community
  • writing
  • volunteering

Questions to consider

  • Is loneliness always a teacher?
  • How do you know when it will pass?

Another view

For some, loneliness does not pass easily.

More from Douglas Coupland

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  2. I have this feeling watching Jasmine - that as you grow older, it becomes harder to feel 100 percent happy; you learn all the things that can go wrong; you bec…

    Permalink to quote #16
  3. I think about how I think I know a person then 'poof!' I discover I only knew a cartoon version. Suddenly there's this fleshy, demanding, noisy creature in fro…

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