Treveccan Stories: The Healing Power of Authentic Relationships

In a culture of growing isolation, alumnus and counselor Chris O’Rear shares how to create the kind of connections we truly need.

As a pastoral therapist in the Nashville area, I can affirm what the U.S. surgeon general declared in 2023—we are indeed experiencing an epidemic of loneliness. 

Many of us are lonely these days, and the issue affects men and women equally, according to Pew research. There are many reasons for this experience, but one of the biggest is a lack of attention to our emotions, along with a lack of vulnerability and depth in our relationships. So, while we may be surrounded by people all day, we still may not experience the deep connection that helps us feel seen, heard, understood and loved.   

The story of Adam and Eve in the Bible reflects our own experiences. They were created naked, signifying complete openness without fear or shame. After eating the forbidden fruit and gaining knowledge of good and evil, they attempted to hide from each other and God.