30 January 2007

Isolation

I may have mentioned this before but it is something that really gets to me: I am isolated here in Oxford and this lack of friends around me is a real kicker that compounds the issues stressing me.

Mainly it just means that I can't just call, text or email someone and go out later. Which translates to me having less of an outlet for whinging, moaning and, more importantly, making light of, getting support for or putting my worries into context: worries like job hunting, lack of sleep or so forth. So little can really be done over the phone that distance really is a factor, but less of one than the issue of having to plan meets weeks in advance. There are friends I haven't seen in over a year because it's tough as hell to fix up dates due to differing schedules, finances and transportation issues.

It drives me mad and, on days like today (or even months like this one), when the stresses and strains take their toll and I really feel the need to kick back and go out with some friends... I can't. None around. Thankfully as I was writing this I did get a call and I have spent the last 20 minutes or so chatting with friends but great as that is... it's not quite the "sit it the pub talking shite" category of relaxation and emotional recharging. Life is a stressful business, and one needs ones friends to keep it from getting too much at times. Isolation prevents that; isolation sucks.

5 comments:

Stick said...

... you're kinda writing my blog for me, here. (Not that it excuses my shoddy word count.) Anyway. Yeah.

Unknown said...

You're right: no excuse! *cracks the whip*

Mange said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Mange said...

I wouldn't mind going for a beer. Just let me know whenever you are in the area...of Pasadena...

I see your point.

Unknown said...

Pasadena, eh?

It would be a bit of a trek - especially given the quality of your stereotypical American beer!