Solitude, Its Significance
A few years ago, one of those dreaded phone calls came informing me of a sudden traumatic death. The brother of a very good friend was killed instantly in a freak accident. Our friend was totally numb. I talked with her on Saturday and again on Sunday. During the Sunday evening talk she indicated that she had said all that needed to be said and that it was time for her to be alone.
My friend worked diligently on 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 our friend grew stronger on Sunday night when she declared that it was time to enter a solitary place!
While I hated to leave her, 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.
Prayer: God bless my moments of solitude with your presence. Amen.
--Ben Keckler
09.29.09
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