Here is what I have come to understand about Solitude. To realize how desperately we depend on the “existence” that recognition by others gives us, and how hopeless we are without it, until God gives us feet to stand alone on. I have those feet sometimes, but once again, let me realize that there is no absolute “standing alone”…only awful poverty and insecurity and clinging to God in one’s need of others…then while clinging to God you will find appreciation of the smallest and most insignificant of things.
Thomas Merton

Standing alone in the middle of an open field can be one of the most refreshing things to do. Next time your near a field…and its open…take a walk to the middle…close your eyes and just listen. I am sure as you begin to listen you will hear things that in the noise of the day you could not tune in on.

Crickets in the distance…the rustle of your feet upon the grass as you stand…the wind blowing every which way against your ears…a large plane flying over head…kids playing in the distance…and there you are…standing….alone…but at the same time with all the confirmation your ears are hearing you start to realize your far from being alone….your actually surrounded by life! I believe we as a human race need to find confirmation of who we are during the silent times of life. Once we learn how to stand on those feet….we will be more aware….more in tune with who we are and what surrounds us. We will no longer seek out the affirming voices of others to keep us going.

I desire to find alone times throughout my day….listen to others and be quiet for once…I want to stop looking for the recognition from others….instead learn how to recognize myself…find out who I am inside and out. Cling to God…hold tight to His side. There is a comfort you can find in silence…a peace that covers the soul…almost like being wrapped in the arms of a father who protects…who loves….who is aware. Clinging to God every chance I get…Be Well.