In a world that prizes connectivity and constant interaction, solitude has become a fearful subject. The frantic pace of modern life, punctuated by ceaseless notifications and the relentless hum of social media, makes this idea alien and undesirable. Yet, solitude is not only necessary, but a profound gift that nurtures strength, spirituality and a deeper connection with the divine.

At its core, solitude is being alone without feeling lonely. It is a deliberate choice to retreat from the chatter of the external world ,and turn inward. 

This retreat is not an escape, but a journey – a pilgrimage of sorts – into the depths of one’s soul. 

In this sacred state of solitude, one finds clarity, introspection and strength from knowing oneself intimately.

However, many people fear solitude, or cannot stand being alone. 

This aversion often stems from a fear of confronting one’s inner thoughts and feelings. 

In the quiet, no distractions can mask our insecurities, fears and doubts. 

This can be uncomfortable – even frightening, as it forces us to face parts of ourselves we might rather ignore. 

Additionally, the societal emphasis on constant social interaction and the stigma around being alone can make solitude undesirable. 

People equate solitude with loneliness and isolation, forgetting that it can be a choice and a powerful tool for personal growth.

The strength derived from solitude is multifaceted. Physically, it allows the body to rest and rejuvenate, free from the demands and stresses of daily life. Mentally, it sharpens focus and fosters creativity, as the mind freely wanders and explores without distractions. 

Emotionally, solitude builds resilience. 

Sitting with our thoughts and feelings helps us to learn to confront and process them, leading to a greater sense of emotional maturity and stability.

Solitude also has a profound spiritual aspect. 

In the stillness, we find the space to reflect on our place in the universe, our purpose and our connection to something greater than ourselves. Many spiritual traditions emphasise the importance of solitude for spiritual growth. 

According to religious texts, Jesus retreated to the wilderness for forty days, Buddha meditated under the Bodhi tree, and countless mystics and sages sought the solace of solitude to commune with the divine.

In solitude, we encounter our true selves, stripped of the masks we wear for the world. 

This encounter is both humbling and empowering. 

It is humbling because it reveals our vulnerabilities, fears and flaws. 

Yet, it is empowering because it reveals our inner strength, passions and potential. 

This duality is what makes solitude a transformative experience. 

It teaches us to embrace our wholeness, the light and the shadow within us.

In the quiet, we are more attuned to the whispers of the soul and the voice of God. 

It is in this sacred silence that we can hear the divine guidance. 

This divine guidance often gets drowned out by the noise of everyday life. 

Whether one believes in a higher power, the universe or the collective unconscious, there is an undeniable sense of something greater that becomes palpable in moments of solitude.

In embracing solitude, we embrace our divinity. 

We recognise that we are not just beings in the world, but integral parts of a greater whole. 

This realisation brings a sense of peace and purpose. It brings light to the elusive life in the hustle and bustle of daily life.  Solitude reminds us that we are enough – just as we are, and that our worth is not defined by our productivity or social interactions ,but by our inherent being.

*Karlos The Great

E-mail: karlsimbumusic@gmail.com.Uncommon Sense is published bi-weekly in the New Era newspaper with contributions from Karlos Naimwhaka. YouTube channel: Karlos Lokos