What did Morrie feel void of during part of his childhood?

During part of his childhood, Morrie felt a deep sense of loneliness and emotional void, particularly due to the absence of his mother, who passed away when he was young. He struggled with feelings of neglect and a lack of affection from his father, who was strict and emotionally distant. This sense of isolation shaped his understanding of love and connection, influencing his later relationships and philosophies on life.