A while ago, an acquaintance wanted to know how I managed a solo lifestyle as a writer. This conversation alone triggered a blog post. She was curious what my thoughts were on being alone. This is where we differ and hold opposing views. I’m happy being by myself and must admit, I love the solo intermission. I see it as a gift, while she views it from another perspective. When alone, I’m inspired to draw, paint, and write. Creativity keeps me occupied and in high spirits. And when I’m not writing, I’m planning the next blog post, the next chapter for the novel I’m working on, or the next project. So… I’m not concerned with being alone per se, but more interested in the upcoming creative course of action – the next long walk – basking in nature… the next adventure.
Being solitary is being alone well: being alone luxuriously immersed in doings of your own choice, aware of the fullness of your own presence rather than of the absence of others. Because solitude is an achievement.
I read somewhere, we shouldn’t confuse loneliness with solitude. What does this mean? I interpret this as viewing alone time as an opportunity, choosing to dance instead of wrestle within the confines of our personal space. I for one, cherish my private time. This is the only occasion to usher inspiration, harvest motivation, and engage in blissful peace. I relish every second by doing what I love and take comfort in just having this time to myself.
LEARNING TO ENJOY A SOLO LIFESTYLE
Many people struggle with just the thought of being alone. As for me, I take pleasure in such moments. Quiet reflection is spiritually uplifting, and it enriches my life. During these private moments, we get to connect with God, achieve revelations, tap into intuition, and creativity. There are those who view being alone a sad depiction of isolation, a negative state, a dark place. When we focus strictly on being alone, we end up losing sight of the good that comes with solo time. We can get lost in negativity, only to end up resisting the tranquility that can glide in with solitude. Ultimately, losing touch with what it truly is and what this can mean. Rather than viewing this alone time as punishment… why not see this time as a gift?
When we alter our viewpoint, it can lead to a turning point. Simply shifting the way you regard the time being alone will remove the shadow of gloom from festering into something negative. Likened to the discontent one can create on their own. The state of one’s unhappiness… conjured up. What? Yup, you read it here. We can conjure it, making something negative appear! Who knew? When viewing this solo time in a negative light – we can lose out. So why not view it as a peaceful interlude?
POWER OF SOLITUDE
The key is to accept such a lull as a gift. And when you do, the way you interpret it will change. Why is that? Because you, my friend, now trust in the power of solitude, realizing its importance, which can deliver peaceful restoration. By the way, it’s important to remember, we are never alone.
God is always present, He’s but a call or prayer away. So rather than wrestle with the darkness of loneliness, learning to dance solo with the spirit of solitude, will yield greater reward.
For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.