Alone Time

Alone time.  It is a word that is music to some people's ears and for others, it makes them shudder, sometimes even panic at the thought of being alone.  To me, however, I find myself somewhere in the middle and I try to keep the perfect balance between being alone and being surrounded by the ones I love.  There are times that time alone is the perfect time to relax with a good book or take a walk and reflect on your life.  And there are other times when I find myself joyously busy with family or friends, busy making unforgettable memories with them.

I usually don't get lonely when I'm alone because I like to be alone with myself.  I like thinking about my goals, my dreams, and my passions.  I can find ways to think and explore without being in the presence of others.  And after I've had some time alone, it makes me appreciate my time with my loved ones so much more than if I were with them 24/7.

Being away at college for example, has been a wakeup call as far as realizing just how grateful I am for the family I have.  We take for granted those around us who we see everyday.  Before going away to school, I never realized just how excited I would be to get home and spend time with my family and wake up to the sound of their voices.  No matter how many friends I make at school, I have realized just how important my relationship with my family is, and just how much I never want to lose them or take them for granted.  I have realized just how powerful being alone is.  It is a feeling sometimes you cherish, sometimes you dread, but whatever it is to you, it will always come back, and it is your choice whether to embrace it or make it just one more hassle in life.  After all, you probably underestimate just how unique you are and may forget just how many dreams you can dream up when you are alone and exploring your own mind.