SOLO JOURNEYS

In just 576 hours, I will be taking a solo journey to a small island – alone! Yes, I am counting the hours. I’ve been taking solo adventures for over 30 years. When I decided three decades ago that I was going to embrace and enjoy single life, I did so with enthusiasm and excitement for what the world could provide my healing soul.

My adventures began with little things like going out to eat alone. I noticed that many couples ate in silence, not a word spoken between them. I may have been alone, but I was not lonely. I went to movies. I began to enjoy sitting quietly, listening intently, without someone talking through the movie, or having to endure the crunching of their popcorn. I went on solo hikes, taking in nature, listening to the birds and observing wildlife. The love of nature now holds a sacred space in my being. I feed birds, watch for their warning signs, beckon butterflies, and welcome bees. Snakes and mice please stay away. I went to museums alone, taking in the beauty and allowing it to speak to me.

And then I started traveling alone. One short trip to the beach, followed by others overseas. I learned to travel light, which has become a metaphor for how I intend to live my life, although that remains a steady work in progress.

I have enjoyed hikes, concerts, beaches, movies, dining, travel, mission trips and many other activities alone. It’s been the very best medicine for my soul. I’ve learned to recognize the signs of the required get-away and honor them. I know when my soul is tired and weary and needs that which only God can provide through the gift of solitude. The best outcome has been enjoying my own company, allowing myself to fully experience and enjoy that which brings my heart peace and comfort.

So, I pack light, journals and pens tucked with care and enthusiasm, and embark on what I know will be a time of renewal, reflection, compassion, relaxation, good food, making new friends and some belly laughs along the way. And certainly many experiences to write about.

I highly recommend it!