Dinner Time

I felt lonely when- I was at home with family

During COVID, for the first time in years, my entire family was under the same roof for weeks. At first, I thought it would be comforting, having everyone around. But as the days went on, I felt strangely alone.

Every evening, we’d gather around the dinner table, but it felt like I was invisible. My parents and siblings would talk and laugh, sharing stories and memories, but my voice seemed to get lost in the mix. I’d try to join in, but no one seemed to notice. They’d go on with their conversations, as if I wasn’t there.

It was strange—being surrounded by the people who know me best, yet feeling so unseen. I started to dread dinners, sitting quietly and pushing food around on my plate, wondering if anyone noticed how alone I felt in a full house.