So I was having lunch at a local restaurant recently enjoying my mind’s musings when I was interrupted by an old song blaring on the radio “One is the loneliest number, one is the loneliest number, one is the loneliest number that you’ll ever do . . .”  I paused.  At that moment I was alone – there was just one of me – and I was perfectly content.  Enjoying my thoughts, the delicious flavors of my meal, and the shades of crimson and gold leaves painting the trees.  Life was good.  The moment was simple and yet perfectly enjoyable.

Clearly the songwriter had a different view. In fairness to Three Dog Night – who sing this song – the lyrics seem to be about a break-up (as so many songs are).  Yet I am struck by how this song both captures and perpetuates the prevalent cultural message that being alone is not ok.  If you are alone – something is wrong with you.  I know people who will not go out to eat alone, or to a movie alone – because of the sense that it is not okay to be alone.  What are the consequence of teaching our children this message?  Being alone allows us to know what we are thinking and feeling.  It allows us time to reflect, be creative, connect with our inner most ideas and dreams.  When we don’t spend time alone we become disconnected with ourselves.  As I quoted in an earlier post we need  “to make regular visits to ourselves.”

How can you enjoy time alone today?  How can you encourage your child to enjoy time alone today too?  Let’s reclaim solitude!