[One Thousand Characters a Day] Person, Your Flower Language Is Loneliness <1>

Editor's NoteIs it because we are lonely that we call ourselves human? Ultimately, humans may meet and love someone to avoid loneliness. Of course, as 'in'gan (humans), we cannot live outside of relationships, but precisely because we are 'in'gan, we need to reflect on the meaning of our existence within those relationships. Such reflection is only possible in disconnection and isolation. This week, Asia Economy introduces an excerpt from the new book ＜Saram-a, Neo-ui Kkotmal-eun Oeroum-ida＞ (Person, Your Flower Language is Loneliness) by essayist and writing instructor Lee Dong-young as a transcription content for the ‘Harumanbo Harucheonja’ newsletter readers. The author says, “Because I am lonely like you, and thanks to the loneliness we share,” this book was published. We hope that readers of this book can gradually be freed from loneliness with every page they turn. Word count: 948.

People who are naturally sensitive, those who overthink, and those who cannot focus deeply on one thing all ultimately boil down to humans with a strong desire to be acknowledged. Recognition is acknowledgment of existence before it is acknowledgment of achievement. To be recognized for our presence, we ultimately want to be a ‘helpful person’ rather than just someone who ‘seems to exist.’ Instinctively, we feel life is meaningful only when the value of our existence is acknowledged. We think we work to earn money, enjoy hobbies for leisure, and fall in love and marry because we are attracted to each other, but I believe all of this is to continuously express our presence. And we are connected?each with our own shape, color, scent, and trials.

This is the moment when a person blooms like a flower.

Loneliness is not a bad feeling. Before blaming loneliness for any problems it may cause, it helps to find something to re-express your presence. This book contains small reflections on the struggles to not lose our presence in a flower-like life.

Since we are born, we must live showing “I am here” until we wither?our flower language is loneliness itself. If a sentence suddenly resonates while reading, it is thanks to the loneliness we share. I hope that with every page you turn in this book, which says “I am lonely just as you are,” you can taste a little liberation. Loneliness is freed by the same loneliness.

If you like this story, it is probably because you have similar wounds or pain somewhere.

This is also why I keep writing. I never forget the heartfelt messages and comments from readers who say they have gained hope to live again after overcoming extreme feelings.

Like a flower that shakes, is beautiful, fragrant, blooms, and withers, I hope you can accept your fate willingly and withstand the wind.

I hope you live loving yourself just as you are, unbroken.

I hope so.

- Lee Dong-young, ＜Saram-a, Neo-ui Kkotmal-eun Oeroum-ida＞, illustrated by Lee Seul-a, Daban, 16,800 KRW