When I was growing up in a family of eight children, I can never remember having any time for solitude. Ten people living in a cramped four-bedroom, one-bath railroad-flat-type apartment did not offer many opportunities for quiet, let alone self-discovery.

As a young adult, I had my first two apartments with roommates. After that, I met the man I would marry. Although that marriage ended in divorce, it wasn’t until my early thirties that I lived completely alone.

At first, the constant quiet was challenging. I filled my life with precious friends and activities, but it was also filled with what I now know was simply noise — noise to fill the empty spaces of my shattered heart and life.

Little by little, though, my heart and my life began to heal. I remember the day I realized I had become whole — almost new. I laughed at the thought that I once “had to” have someone else around to feel complete, to feel normal, to feel valued. I discovered that I had become my own best friend.

This morning, during my devotional time, I came upon the topic of solitude and was reminded of all I just shared with you. Now I crave solitude. There is never quite enough of it for me.

That does not mean I am anti-social or that I lock myself away in some dark, mysterious corner.   Evidence of solitude is seen all over this blog. Even as I write this, I am enjoying my much-coveted time alone. The videos you watch, the recipes I share, the songs I sing — all are born out of times of exquisite aloneness.

As my friend Sue writes, “Unfortunately, many people confuse solitude with loneliness. They are not the same thing.”

Today, I thank God for the gift of solitude. Millions upon millions of people in this world will never know its joys.

Pride + People = Anger. In contrast, a humble spirit is not frustrated by people.
— Boomer in the Pew (A Study of Esther)

There is a strange strength conceived in solitude. Jesus, every little while, withdrew from the crowd. Oh, for the tonic of waiting upon God!
— Streams in the Desert, 12.4.09

Blessings.