Being Alone but Not Lonely

In our modern-day, constantly rushing society, we have adapted to filling the awkwardness of silence with superficiality. We look to many distractions as a means of avoiding feelings of laziness or monotony. The main thing we wish to escape, however, is loneliness. Solitude does not have to be divisive or lonely. In fact, solitude and lonesomeness are distinctly different. For one example, being alone is something that introverts are pretty comfortable with. However, everyone still has their limits.

The passing of a loved one or the lack of ability to find someone who understands you can leave you feeling alienated. Webster's Dictionary plainly describes being lonely as being without company. It is reasonable to feel an empty inner void while longing for love or to be accepted. Loneliness is therefore an emotional state that can be felt whether or not the person is physically alone.

It was Geoffrey F. Fisher who said, "In cities no one is quiet but many are lonely; in the country, people are quiet but few are lonely."

We tend to fill loneliness with all types of diversions. For example, some single women would rather spend an evening with a man they have no legitimate interest in, than spend the night alone. They seek a way to kill time while they wait for a man they are actually interested in. Then, there are young adults who are involved in circles of people where they can hardly relate to their peers. However, they would rather feel accepted on a superficial level than risk feeling unwanted. So what is the thing about being by ourselves that scares us? 

Do not be frightened by the foreignness of silence. It can be an amazing thing. Silence enlightens one on how to truly listen. It gives the opportunity to pay attention to what is going on inside of oneself. Only when we are alone can we have the capacity and serenity we need to think without being pressured by outside influences. Therefore, it becomes simpler to make crucial decisions as well as identify whatever feelings are culminating within.

Get in touch with yourself so that you can make clear-minded choices rather than simply reacting to emotions. Be grateful for the time you have to yourself. Let the serenity and understanding you find better prepare you for all the excitement of todays world.