Modern-day loneliness: There is a personal and a universal aspect of loneliness

While being alone, or solitude, is an important component of well-being, loneliness is a lingering and persistent social isolation, often involuntary, and sometimes even when we are surrounded by people. Photo: TNS/Dreamstime

Two friends take turns on alternating mornings making eggs and toast for me.

They straighten my bed, wash my linens and take out the trash.