MDBCs 11 Jul 2024

Make someone smile on Cheer up the Lonely Day. Annually celebrated on July 11, the unofficial holiday aims to encourage people to give some of their time to make people who are lonely smile.

Loneliness is an inevitable part of life. For some people, it can be temporary, and for others it may be a daily struggle. Loneliness can affect the young and the old, and people from all walks of life. It can be harmful to the mental, physical, and social health of those suffering from it.

Bringing Cheer

Cheer Up the Lonely Day aims to spread awareness about the damaging effects of loneliness and asks for people to give some of their time to bring happiness and cheer into the lives of those who may be lonely.

How to Celebrate?

This is one holiday that is easy to celebrate. All you need to do is make someone feel loved. If you know someone who could use your company, spend some time with them, make them their favorite meal, give them some encouragement, and let them know that you enjoy your time with them.
If the person lives far away, send them a note to tell them that you miss them and that you think about them. Or what about sending them a little gift - perhaps their favorite candy or a bunch of flowers?
Volunteer your time to work with the elderly in a nursing home - not only will you be bringing cheer in their lives, you may get to hear some amazing stories about their past.
Learn more about the connection between mental health and loneliness and what you can do to ward off loneliness in your life and in the lives of others.
Invite someone who has just moved to your town for coffee and cake and get to know them better.

Did You Know...

...that some people can have a real fear of being lonely? Autophobia is the fear of being alone.

***

Overheard: a mother bragging about her daughter.

“She’s very articulate. She can draw anything.”

***

I went with a friend to the country to look at a house he was thinking of buying. We found the town but not the road. We drove over to city hall, but no one there had heard of the road, not even the police or firefighters we asked. Finally, a young guy came to our aid. Pulling out a map, he showed us exactly how to get there.

“Thanks,” I said. “Are you with the police or fire department?”

“Neither,” he said. “I deliver pizzas.”

***

While phoning a friend, my grandmother dialed the wrong number. She apologized and tried again, but she got the same number. Once more she hung up and redialed—same result. Now Grandma was frustrated.

“Look,” she told the person on the other end,

“I’m going to call my friend again. This time, don’t answer her phone!”

***

On a trip to Sweden, I asked a few people where I could find some good local cuisine. “This is a pretty cosmopolitan city, so you can find just about any kind of international food that you’d like,” said one man.