Solitude
13 June 2016
I’m always amazed at how, nowadays, so many people can’t seem to be able to spend any time by themselves.
Some people appear to need to be with others incessantly.
And, unfortunately, a lot of people seem to equate being alone with being lonely.
Many people can’t seem to be able to amuse themselves (unless they have their ubiquitous i-phone or smartphone in their hands) for more than a few minutes without resorting to calling someone, turning on the TV, checking their facebook or twitter, or just looking around vainly for something to do or someone to talk to…
Of course, it is natural for us to be around other people, and it is healthy and a good idea to be social, at least sometimes! While some people are comfortable with being a little social, some people are more social. It’s just another variance of human nature. Some people are more of a social butterfly than others. You only have to think about or observe your friends and colleagues and note if some of their habits are going out to a bar or a restaurant or a shopping centre—for no special purpose other than being with or near other people, or getting out from their home. Then there are those people who are forever on their phone talking to others about nothing in particular—they just need to hear the sound of someone else’s voice, needing the reassurance of another human’s presence.
But I often wonder: whatever happened to solitude, being alone and enjoying being alone? Maybe either sitting at home quietly relaxing with no radio on, no TV blaring in the corner, or no disturbances; maybe reading a book or painting, doing some other hobby or even simply meditating? Or, if you feel the need to go out, enjoy a longish walk in the country park or even just around the block a few times (if it is quiet). Revel in being alone, revel in not having to talk or answer to anyone.
While we do need affection, and to spend time with others, it is also important to be able to be comfortable within yourself, and with yourself. And to be able to enjoy some time alone now and then. Especially withe the busy and fast pace of life these days, it’s great to be able to just disconnect and enjoy solitude for a while.
Enjoy the peace; switch off and let your mind relax; switch off and let your cares and concerns melt away for a while. Enjoy the solitude; enjoy your own company.
Rediscover yourself and examine your inner feelings; reflect, ponder and rejuvenate your mind by indulging yourself….in perfect solitude.
Don’t worry, you will not be lonely as you have someone very important with you. You may think that you are alone, but you are not, as you have someone who knows you better than anyone else close by; someone who knows all about you.
Puzzled? Don’t be.
Spend some time alone. Enjoy the peace and the solitude. Find your inner-self and reconnect with YOU.
“All of humanity’s problems stem from man’s inability to sit quietly in a room alone.”
