She said, he said.

He asked me, do you feel lonely? Do you know how lonliness feels like?

How can I say, if not by my virtue, that lonliness is not same as being alone. Lonliness is a state of discomfort one perceives when the actual state of experiences is far different from that of one’s desire.

Long term feelings of loneliness and social isolation can also reduce cognitive skills such as the ability to concentrate, make decisions, problem-solve, and even change negative self-beliefs. And it can ultimately lead to depression.

It is ironical to have been asked this question. And esp. when he himself pushes me towards it.