Loneliness or Bliss: Embracing Solitude in Our Connectivity-Absorbed World

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stay home, surrounded by your own personal space, without the constant interplay of social interactions? For some individuals, the idea of living alone is a true “pure heaven”, offering an environment devoid of the typical social stresses and the daily din of human interaction. However, for others, the absence of human connection can lead to profound feelings of loneliness and disconnection.

Living Alone: A Double-Edged Sword

The narrative of living alone often presents itself as a trade-off between solitude and loneliness. Many who take up the choice of living solitary lives might find it refreshing and liberating. As someone who has cohabitated with roommates, but prefers the solitude, “Pure heaven”, writer shares their insights on how they thrive in such an environment. The individual's current situation involves spending days by themselves – those December breaks from their job allow for extended periods of alone time, which they cherish.

I spent several days by myself on the December week break. Despite the constant need for human touch and the occasional pandemic-induced isolation, being alone has brought joy and peace. The separation from friends is balanced by the joy of self-reliance and the capacity for individual freedom. Spending the days enjoying hand sewing, researching, and tending to animals has been immensely gratifying.

A Life of Self-Reliance

Living alone is a lifelong experience for the author. This life is self-reliant, and the only interpersonal interactions happen at infrequent intervals for tasks like grocery shopping or visiting the doctor. Even during a significant event like a pandemic lockdown, this choice felt “fine”, with camping in the High Sierra contributing to a sense of contentment and “utter bliss”.

Daily routine

Hand sewing an entire outfit Researching Old Norse spirituality Refurbishing their cabin Listing items on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace Moving data and images using a phone Arranging for visitors from neighboring regions Tending to animals

Sources of Comfort and Company

The key to maintaining happiness in solitude is the occasional human interaction. For the author, interacting with people just a couple of times a month is sufficient. This interaction not only provides physical touch like hugs but also emotional sustenance. Thus, if feelings of disconnection or loneliness start to loom, a simple hike or snack with a friend can erase them.

Celebrating a Life of Solitude

The freedom of being alone and the opportunity to indulge in one's hobbies without interference can be a profound source of happiness. The author embraces solitude not only for the self-reliance it provides but also for the nonchalant relationships that can be formed with pets and nature. The TV or radio can be a source of human interaction as well.

Conclusion

It's crucial to remember that while the author thrives on solitude, it is not universally seen as a luxury. For many, the comfort and sense of autonomy that comes with living alone offer a blissful existence. However, the capacity to maintain these feelings of joy is heavily reliant on the frequency of human contact. The balance between independence and connectedness is a delicate one, and for those who can find a harmonious balance, the bliss of solitude might just be their heaven on earth.

So, if you ever find yourself pondering the idea of staying home alone, consider the myriad ways in which solitude can bring peace, joy, and a sense of self-reliance.