Open Post on the Lonliness of the Magical/Esoteric Path

[causticus]

General discussion thread for how to deal with the loneliness issues that tend to creep up as one advances further down this path. The usual etiquette of Ecosphian discussions apply here.

Comments

[lp9]

Wow, this is perfect timing. Anyone have insights on dealing with loneliness when you have a spouse who is not currently on the same path?

[youngelephant]

I have a theory that whenever we feel loneliness on the path it's a subtle lack within ourselves. We want social proof for our theories and practices. I think the work is to affirm and provide this social proof internally. I think at some point the wholeness from internal self affirmation will radiate into the subtle planes and bring the socialization we used to desire so much. That's my take anyway.

[boccaderlupo]

I guess my question would be: is it a lack of social interaction per se? Or that the social interactions you have are desultory, as they do not pertain to spiritual matters?

I definitely get the latter, as I don't frequently have real-life conversations on those subjects. Most of my time and energy is invested in reading and contemplation in that regard, but alternately due to real-life situations I of course am compelled to have interactions that have nothing (ostensibly) spiritual to them.

My initial take on that: When in the material element, engage at the material level (so long as it does not damage "the chain").

Axé

[the_copper_dragon]

I've said something on your post up on the other blog.

That being said I've had some experiences with trying to find some kind of belonging with others and it ended in drama and a whole ton of bs. There's some good groups out there but honestly sometimes it's just best to become a hermit of some kind and remain anonymous.

[randomactsofkarmasc]

I cannot say that I'm lonely... I've got a wonderfully supportive spouse (whose not on the path, but is willing to listen to me chatter about things) and I've never really been social. But it would be nice to have a group (online or real-life) to talk about occult things.

[leahkiser]

My husband has no interest whatsoever in religion, mysticism, or spirituality. He has his downstairs home office and the tv room, I have my upstairs home office and studio. Most days we only see each other at dinner until time to call it a day. Sometimes we go out for lunch or do local events, home projects, or gardening on weekends, but most weekdays and rainy/cold weekends we live separate lives now. Almost like glorified roommates - so I'm interested in seeing what others have to say. We have no animosity. We've just drifted very far apart in our interests, especially since the kids are all adults now. It's lonely, and none of my friends or acquaintances are on this path either. I'm perched here on the top of the Hermit card and have no idea how to get down. I was never good at making friends even when I was younger. Now it seems impossible. Thanks for listening.