One of my favorite books is a children’s book titled, Island of the Blue Dolphins, written in 1960 by Scott O’Dell and first published in Great Britain by Constable & Co. The book is based on a true story of an American Indian girl abandoned in 1835 on a lonely rocky island off the Californian coast. After her younger brother’s tragic death, she survived eighteen years of great danger and suffering, with only birds and animals for friends. This moving story won several awards and captured my heart as a child. I still read the book from time to time.
I have always enjoyed periods of solitude in my life. A time to put friendship gatherings, conversations, engagements, social events, and chatter on hold. I usually don’t get lonely or miss the vibrant energy of meeting with family, friends, or colleagues. Just the opposite. I cherish the moments to place my chaos to rest and awaken an inner calm. Perhaps, that is why I loved that little book so much.
After my intense travel week and several social gatherings, many with people I had not seen in years, I longed for solitude. So, I took this entire week to be by myself. I crossed out engagements on my calendar, canceled appointments, and re-scheduled a few meetings.
I have found myself letting out these long sighs for the past week. I’ve slept in. When writing, I make hot cups of tea and leisurely sip them at my desk. I take long walks on the trails near my house in the afternoons.
Everything has slowed down. And as I come to the close of my solitary week, I am already wishing I could keep going. For me, solitude is a great comfort.
“I never found the companion that was so companionable as solitude.” Thoreau
There is a stillness
on the tops of the hills.
In the treetops
you feel
hardly a breath of air.
Simply wait: soon
you too will be silent.
Goethe
How did you find solace this week?
Sharon
© 2022. Sharon Kreider. All Rights Reserved
