"Ordinary men hate solitude. But the master makes use of it, embracing his aloneness, realizing he is one with the whole universe" -Lao Tzu

A fundamental apsect of loneliness and is isolation and feeling disconnected from ourselves and others. Whether preempted by such life changing events as death, change in marital status, or geographic move, the feeling of loneliness is part of the human condition. However, prolonged loneliness, separation, and chronic isolation may negatively impact your overall wellbeing. During these challenging times, masses of people are suffering in quiet desparation from lack of intimacy, support and social connection. Even in the midst of being surrounded by others, many still feel distraught with loneliness. These feelings of emptiness and unworthiness can be exasperated by increased anxiety, depression and stress.

We have a certain personality image that defines how we see ourselves in the context of our social life that may have to be redefined or reconstructed as a result of significant life changes. For example, a divorced person, now single, may not fit in with the social network of married couples. The distress and loneliness of a bereaved widow after the loss of a spouse, may have long term effects on overall wellbeing and stability. A retired person may have difficulty building a new life beyond the workplace. Leaving relationships, possessions and familiar places to relocate to a new geographic area can also have a substantial impact on personal and social adjustment. Unhealthy ways of coping with loneliness may result in indulging in addictive behavors and immersing ourselves in meaningless outer distractions that bring temporary and fleeting moments of satisfaction. We have the capacity to reinvent ourselves, experience a renewed self and natural way of being in the world.

There is power in aloneness with the oppportunity for solitude to deepen our relationship with ourselves. Aloneness is a state of mind, and our alone time can be a doorway to inner peace, openess to receive divine guidance and to become more content. We can cultivate aloneness and embrace solitude through self-discovery, conscious personal engagement, being yourself, trusting yourself, and valuing enriching relationships. Dr. Jean Marie highlights each.

Our Love In Action Practice practice is to journal on what it feels like to be alone. Pay attention to your thoughts. Take time to be in solitude and discard outer distractions. Rest, relax and renew. Just be. Let thoughts come and go. Be gentle with yourself. Focus your intention on deepening the relationship with your inner self.

Feel free to share your insights and experiences: Email jean72farish@yahoo.com

Dr. Jean Marie closes with her excerpt on Self-Rest.