Sometimes
I need to be alone. Just me and an uncluttered mind. No phone,
no laptop, no email, no people. No radio or television. No
housework or undone projects hanging over my head. No appointments,
grocery shopping, or errands waiting to be done. No responsibility
other than to myself and definitely no pressure from the expectations
of others.
I'm
normally an extrovert, but when life gets stressful I crave the
quietness and peace that comes from solitude. It can be difficult to
turn off my brain because I'm always making lists in my head or
creating new ideas. Being alone helps me focus and think more
clearly.
You'd
think that retirement would give me lots of solitude. It's true that
I should have more control of my time, but it seems like I'm doing
more than ever. Camping, hobbies, family, and home improvements come
with their own set of distractions and to do lists.
I
need to work on setting boundaries and priorities. After all, I
shouldn't feel guilty for needing time for myself. It's the best way
to recharge my batteries and energize my spirit. I'd like a week at
the beach, but I'll settle for a day at home with no interruptions.
“True
silence is the rest of the mind, and is to the spirit what sleep is
to the body - nourishment and refreshment.” William Penn
“How
can you hear your soul if everyone is talking?” – Mary Doria
Russell
