When I was younger, and found myself feeling lonely, someone gave me a Siberian Husky puppy from a litter. I was not lonely again. First of all, the dog herself was a great companion, loved to be stroked and hugged, and was always thrilled to see me. What is better than to come home and have this creature jumping around, wagging it's tail, just delighted to see you. She was a constant companion, needed care, and gave me a way of thinking about someone else besides myself.
Then, when I would walk the dog, people would admire her and talk to me. This led to meeting my future husband, and when we got married we got another Siberian Husky, so then we had two. Lots of fun.
I think that dog taught me how to greet people. Light up your face, get all excited, on some occassions throw your arms around them and give them a big hug. I know dogs don't do this, but they do lick your face.
Now I'm divorced, live alone in a condominium with no pets, yet for some reason I don't feel lonely. I think I realize that there are lots of lonely people around, so I make it a habit to act like a puppy when I see them.
Choices, it's all about choices.