Are you tired of me posting things from Henri Nouwen …?
… Too bad.
Loved this devotional from Bread for the Journey on the difference between loneliness and solitude. The last few months I have really begun to enjoy the presence of God I have found in solitude.
I agree that “loneliness” actually keeps us from having the relationships we long to have. It creates a desperateness that drives others away.
All human beings are alone. No other person will completely feel like we do, think like we do, act like we do. Each of us is unique, and our aloneness is the other side of our uniqueness. The question is whether we let our aloneness become loneliness or whether we allow it to lead us into solitude.
Loneliness is painful;
solitude is peaceful.
Loneliness makes us cling to others in desperation;
solitude allows us to respect others in their uniqueness and create community.
Letting our aloneness grow into solitude and not into loneliness is a lifelong struggle.
It requires conscious choices about whom to be with, what to study, how to pray, and when to ask for counsel. But wise choices will help us to find the solitude where our hearts can grow in love.
