solitude in a crowded world.

"Solitude is not something you must hope for in the future. Rather it is a deepening of the present, and unless you look for it in the present you will never find it." Thomas Merton

For quite some years I have delved into the writings and life of Thomas Merton. He is fascinating to me. I am amazed with his bold words, yet conscientious care when addressing political, societal, and spiritual topics. One social topic he address quite eloquently is the idea and practice of solitude. I relate deeply to the conviction that solitude is of great value and should be sought out and time should be allotted for it. As I enter into my ninth year living in the redwood forest, I have found much clarity and connection to God in solitude. There are definitely some levels of disconnect to other people, but I am awed by the richness I find alone. You see, I believe I am never alone. God is with me. In a crowded world of noise, and people bustling about it can be hard to be in solitude. For some it is hard to imagine being alone for merely hours. A day alone seems maddening. Close your eyes and imagine a place where the slightest crack of a branch miles away sounds like it snapped next to your ear. Envision yourself resting your head against the fuzzy bark of a gigantic redwood, the damp laden soil seeps warmth from the forest floor, seemingly breathing. This is my solitude. This is my home. Let yourself be alone. Find time for solitude. Whether you sit shivering in a subway station waiting for the redline and close your eyes and imagine the sun warming your your wind chapped skin, or you get away into nature, solitude will deafen the noise and lessen the crowded world. I hear God in the silence of solitude. I believe am never alone. Solitude is a priceless necessity.