Thursday Thoughts: Being Alone Does Not Equate to Loneliness

A family member once told me that I’m going to die alone, with no one to miss me but my children; and maybe not even them. I can laugh at this absurd statement now; especially since this person is going on their third marriage. I think I’d rather be alone as opposed to leaving a trail of failed marriages as my legacy.

At some point in our lives, it is beneficial to be alone. There are simply periods of growth that need to take place that require solitude. Our world is overly opinionated and judgmental, and it’s easy to feel as if you need to adhere to the impossible standards society tries to set for everyone.

I’ve always needed space and time to go my own way and forge my own path. It’s during these times that I’m afforded the true luxury of learning. I accepted long ago that I’m not cut from the same cloth as most but there were many years where I felt I should assimilate with the masses. However, in my solitude, I have been able to re-evaluate a lot of areas in my life and come to terms with the woman I am.

Solitude can bring a sense of peace. You feel free and uninhibited. You don’t have anyone to explain yourself to, you can just be. It’s a time where you can solely focus on self improvement. There’s no pressure or compromises to be made, you can live life on your own terms.

Self love, care and acceptance deserve more emphasis in our lives. Think about that the next time you have someone as ignorant as I did try and make you feel as if there is something wrong with you for valuing your own identity and being strong enough not to be a follower.

~ Mara Prose