Alone or Lonely

Alone or Lonely

I was recently asked how can you stand to being in that house all alone, “I’m never alone” I like myself was my reply.  I guess to those on the outside living alone would seem difficult but to for me I learned a very long time ago how to enjoy my own company and the peace that comes with it.  I have heated debates and philosophical conversations that allow me to think through all the different outcomes of my choices.  As a planner I typically will have lists my Plan A but I always allow for negative outcomes with a Plan B.  I had no plan prior to 2009, my daughter had married and moved to Italy with her son and husband, my mother had moved in with me for a “short term” which lasted 8 years.  So when I met with Melissa Thomas and started to discuss my educational interests I had no idea what I wanted to be when I grew up.  A few hours later and some entrance exams and I was registered in the Paralegal Studies program.  Fast forward to now my mother has retired and moved to Florida and I have my house back, I only have to shop for one so food costs are low, I get to choose which programs to watch on TV If I don’t want to wash the dishes or clean the house I don’t have to, I’m active in my Church so I have purpose I am blessed with friends both on social media and reality so I am rich.  So does this sound like I’m alone or lonely?  Some would say I sound lonely but I would argue that those who can’t be comfortable in their own space or even “in their own skin” without a lot of people around have never felt how lonely you can feel in a room full of people.  My Grandmother once told me there is a difference between alone and lonely and she assured me once I understood that I would never be either again.  She was right.  I enjoy being able to spend time with family and friends laughing and remembering our past.  But I also enjoy being at home watching TV, reading, and writing I’m presently working on multiple short stories and enjoy inventing people and events that don’t exist it’s like playing make believe.  I recently took up the art of meditation it’s not as easy as it seems turning off your mind and listening to either soft music or just silence but the one thing I don’t feel is lonely.  I do have one other thing that keeps me from being alone my loyal companion and furry baby Rico, we have our talks and walks and enjoy each other’s company.  So my advice to others would be find something that you enjoy spend time with those you love and later spend some time with yourself alone.