Needing Solitude
“My soul finds rest in God alone;
my salvation comes from my Creator.”
--Psalm 62: 1
Have you ever received one of those dreaded phone calls? I can remember several times when such a call came, informing me of a sudden traumatic death. One event I recall involved a very good friend’s brother who was killed instantly in a freak accident. My friend was totally numb. I talked with her in the hours that followed the tragedy. During one talk she indicated that she had said all that needed to be said and that it was time for her to be alone.
This friend continues to develop her ability to be attentive to God’s voice. She continues to learn that solitude is important, particularly when you feel bombarded by the many thoughts and feelings that emerge from difficult, daily living. The ability to withdraw from surrounding distractions takes time to develop. I am confident that my friend grew stronger that night when she declared that it was time to enter a solitary place!
While I hated to leave her alone in her pain, I knew that the best way for her to deal with her emptiness, loss, anger and grief was some quiet time with God. The Sacred writings tell stories about times when people found it helpful to enter into solitude. Even if it is only for a few minutes, take some time today for some solitary moments with God.
A prayer: God bless my moments of solitude with your presence. Amen.
Ben Keckler
09.16.08
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