Religious Enmeshment - The Loneliness of Exiting

Friendships are the colourful threads of life. We cherish these connections, believing them to be steadfast pillars of companionship.

Yet, in religious environments where everyone is suddenly considered "family" there can be a lot of pressure. Pressure to divulge intimate details of our lives very quickly. This level of enmeshment blurs the lines between genuine connection and forced intimacy.

The sting of discovering that those we considered friends or even family merely existed within the confines of a specific setting can be profound. As we move on from these groups or environments, it becomes painfully evident who was merely a companion of convenience.

The Ache…

The ache of feeling unseen or insignificant upon exiting these insular communities cuts deep. During these moments of clarity, we grapple with emotions of alienation, longing, and bewilderment. We are left to ponder the authenticity of the bond shared, questioning whether it was authentic or simply a facade constructed within the confines of religious expectations.

To those who bear the weight of fading friendships, your emotions are valid and deserving of acknowledgement. Take your time to mourn, process, and heal the loss of what you thought was a meaningful and long-term connection.

Remember…

Remember, dear heart, that true friendships are rooted in genuine care, mutual respect, and unwavering support.

If you're wrestling with loneliness from evaporated friendships, then I grieve with you, sharing in your sorrow and fostering hope that authentic connections will cross our paths.