I recently helped care for a friend who needed medical attention and some time to recuperate. I took time off myself to be able to help care for her. Another friend did the same thing, and visited her every single day she was in the hospital. She saw us with her parents the moment she opened her eyes after her surgery. We were there every day, encouraging, feeding, and helping her get stronger. At the end of her hospital stay, she thanked us, gave us a big hug each and said, “I may be single, but I’m sure not alone.”

When I heard that phrase, I was touched and felt appreciated. I knew then that we had accomplished more than simply helping provide physical care. We helped ensure she did not feel alone in what could be a most difficult time in any person’s life.

Single but not alone. The word single has come with many connotations, and too often, negative ones. It has almost seemed like it’s a plague to be single. That life has dealt you a hard blow when you are single or are not in a relationship. The status in itself makes you feel like you are alone in life, even when you actually do not feel that way. Yet, such does not have to be the case, because such is not the case. We all need a community, and we can have a community.

Even the Bible says, “there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” A community, the right community, can bring encouragement to a person. Encouragement — to put courage in. A group of people, friends, who help infuse faith and courage, when life seems to get dim. People who will hold your hand when you do not know and understand the next steps.

We all can have a community, but how do we get that? First, we need to step out of our comfort zone and reach out to people. Make friends. Allow ourselves a level of vulnerability. Open up our lives to others. Second, we need to be that kind of friend who sticks closer than a brother. In order to have friends like that, we first need to learn how to be that kind of friend. How do we do that? Third, by enjoying every opportunity to meet and build with people. Seize the moment and live life. Do not be in a state of waiting every single day.

Every new day brings fresh hope and a new excitement. And they are always best lived with a community around you.