Hey Jeannie....
Wow... I understand completely. I'm a bit of a loner, too. For years, my best friend was someone I communicated with mostly by phone (she had moved from my area). I've always had a few casual acquaintances, people who are nice, but just happen to be there (co-workers, neighbors). I have hobbies (reading, long solitary walks, various crafts, and I love to write.) I must add, I have a loving family.
So how can I be lonely, right? Well my best friend now has dementia. I miss her terribly. I have a few casual acquaintances, but the pandemic makes it impossible to see them. Visits with kids / grandkids are also less frequent because of the pandemic. And when I do see them, it's from a safe distance. A-u-g-h.
I've always treasured alone time, but this has become too much. I've been making afghans with loop yarn (very fast and easy) and saving them to donate to the Linus Project when the world opens up again. I try to stay in touch with people via e-mail, text and phone. And in an effort to find something else to do, I went online and found this community. I've only posted a few things, but it has helped keep me busy and somewhat connected.
I agree with what you said about e-mail. I love it. It gives me a chance to express myself in a safe way. (Re-read and go back to correct mistakes, or think, "Why the heck did I say that? And correct before sending.)
Take good care..... Hang in there....
Pat