Loneliness vs. Solitude.

Sometimes, a 300 square foot, so-called apartment, more like a room, amount of space is homey and cozy.

And sometimes it seems huge and empty.

Sometimes it's peaceful.

And sometimes the quiet screams at me and keeps me awake.

Sometimes it's a refuge.

And sometimes I run from it.

Sometimes it's a place for solitude.

And sometimes it's lonely.

It's always the same place. It never changes. But I do.

Finding Solitude

"All human beings are alone. No other person will completely feel like we do, think like we do, act like we do. Each of us is unique, and our aloneness is the other side of our uniqueness. The question is whether we let our aloneness become loneliness or whether we allow it to lead us into solitude. Loneliness is painful; solitude is peaceful. Loneliness makes us cling to others in desperation; solitude allows us to respect others in their uniqueness and create community.

Letting our aloneness grow into solitude and not into loneliness is a lifelong struggle. It requires conscious choices about whom to be with, what to study, how to pray, and when to ask for counsel. But wise choices will help us to find the solitude where our hearts can grow in love."

~Henri Nouwen