Ah, yes, well if we are defining connection as being held in mind, then sure - I connect with hundreds every day, even if only briefly

I'm not sure it would make a difference to me if anyone held me in mind for longer than it took us to enjoy the conversation or play the game or whatever ... Maybe that's why I don't think I feel or understand loneliness. Perhaps loneliness, then, is just the felt absence of the belief that some other person is holding you in mind when not in direct engagement with them.