I have heard of a man lost in the woods and dying of famine and exhaustion at the foot of a tree, whose loneliness was relieved by the grotesque visions with which, owing to bodily weakness, his diseased imagination surrounded him, and which he believed to be real. So also, owing to bodily and mental health and strength, we may be continually cheered by a like but more normal and natural society, and come to know that we are never alone.

Summary

This quote suggests that in times of extreme isolation and despair, our minds can conjure up imaginary figures and situations to alleviate our loneliness. It parallels this with the idea that in our state of physical and mental wellbeing, we can find solace in genuine connections with others, which reinforces the notion that we are never truly alone. Whether through the fantastical illusions of a dying man or the comfort of real human interactions, our perception of company can influence our overall well-being.

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