The Productivity of Peace

The Difference Between Lonely and Alone

It’s back to work for me this week, following my own spring break. This week, however, Phred is on her spring break, heading out on her annual trip to Las Vegas. I’m glad she’s doing it; she hasn’t allowed herself much of a social life these last few years, and seeing her make time for herself is a win.

This also means I’m flying solo at the house. It’s funny because the thought of solitude terrifies most people. Don’t get me wrong—I don’t crave solitary confinement—but there’s a massive difference between being lonely and being alone.

Being alone this week makes me realize that, financial considerations aside, I could handle living on my own if I had to. Even when I’m dealing with a “kid hangover,” my sister is usually still around. Now, it is truly quiet. And honestly? I’m enjoying the silence.

I remember phases in my life, usually when anxiety was high, where I needed the TV or a light on just to drift off. Now, more often than not, I’m content shutting everything down and just existing in the dark. It’s not that the chaos is gone; I’ve just gotten better at managing the noise.

A 21st-Century Transcendentalist

I’m reminded of my favorite Emerson quote:

I am not solitary whilst I read and write, but nobody is with me”

The blog makes this solitude productive. I’ve been an introspective guy since I started journaling in the sixth grade, but blogging for 950+ consecutive days has forced me to look inward with a “Tricorder” level of detail. Without the writing, this silence might feel scary. With it, the silence feels like a tool.

I’m 47 days away from 1,000. That milestone is starting to loom large, and it’s making me reflect on every inch of the road I’ve traveled. I’m a lot more confident in my voice than I used to be. Most importantly, I’m at peace with a lot more things in my life right now than maybe I ever have been.

Today’s post is inspired by the WordPress Daily Prompt. While I’ve taken the topic in my own direction for the Road to 1,000 Days, you can find more responses to today’s prompt HERE .

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The article “The Productivity of Peace” first appeared on Rebuilding Rob.