Ask Amy: Pandemic amplifies long-distance loneliness
You could also see if your hometown friends might want to create a standing date to play an online game like “Words with Friends.”
Understand, however, that many people are struggling right now – just as you are. What I’m trying to say is – it’s not you. It is everyone.
Your local library might host a (virtual) book club you could join. Doing this would help you to connect in-person when the world opens up.
Yes – you can make new friends while staying at home. There are numerous online communities for any interest you might have – or acquire. Reddit.com is (basically) the internet’s bulletin board. I just randomly looked up “Portland/knitting” and felt instantly cheered by the photos and comments of knitters in Portland. (And I don’t knit – OR live in Portland!)
Dear Amy: I am retired. I never married and have no children. Thanks to the careful budgeting of my parents and an uncle, I am what would be called comfortably well off. Now that I have the time and my health, I have indulged in traveling.
If all goes well, I'm planning a trip to Europe later this year. I offered all three of my nieces a chance to go with me. All three turned me down for good reasons, so it looks like I am going by myself.
My brother called me and asked me how it was that I can afford to take the kids to Europe and not help him with other bills. I am likely to get overburdened with his bills, and I didn't feel comfortable signing a loan for him.
My brother told me that I was not to have anything to do with his kids. I am a consenting adult who can decide for myself who I will and won't associate with. Furthermore, all three nieces are consenting adults and can make their own decisions. I'd love to hear your take on the situation.
Loving Aunt
Dear Aunt: I’m volunteering to be your “companion,” like a character in an E.M Forster novel.
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