A Reflection on Solitude

Solitude is, by itself, a skill to master. People all around the world keep saying that only some people are "born" with or "wired" with the ability to find joy in isolation. But the truth is, everyone, even extroverts, need to master the art of solitude, no matter how elusive it may be for them.

Solitude is given all matters of stigma throughout our modern day, "hustle and bustle" society. It tends to imply that, when one is alone, that individual's a pariah for not engaging with society or tending to social events simply for the sake of it. But just as King Solomon once said that there is a time and place for everything--there is always a time and place for being alone.

One of the many disciplines involved in solitude is the art of reflection and tapping into a contentment that can only be gained by tapping into the inward.

In man's never-ending search for outward distraction and amusement, one can easily fall victim to callusing themselves to all forms of excitement, simply by over-use and repetition. But one who has mastered the art of solitude can be able to sit still in one place, alone, and still discover contentment. And, from that moment of being alone, they are renewed and rejuvenated, not only for themselves, but also in their interaction with others, their loved ones, and the rest of the world when they stop being alone. The secret lies in balance (for lack of a better term) and sadly people tend to go to either extreme.

This, by itself, is another aspect of mastering solitude--knowing when one needs it and knowing when it's too much.