Solitude and isolation
Solitude is a necessity; isolation is a trap. Solitude is
life-giving; isolation is life-taking. One generally seeks solitude in order to
be refreshed for subsequent service; a person in isolation has no one left to
serve. Solitude builds up the spirit and soul; isolation eats away and weakens
what little is left.
Jesus frequently sought solitude in order to pray to his
Father, and to prepare for the needs of the people he looked upon “like sheep
without a shepherd.” Judas, on the other hand, lived an isolated life; I cannot
imagine that he ever really became part of the group of apostles, especially
when they were relaxing together. I picture him off in a corner brooding and
petulant.
Solitude makes one more sensitive to the needs of others
(see “The Joy of the Gospel,” paragraph 9; isolation hardens the heart. “Life
grows by being given away, and it weakens in isolation and comfort” (the South
American and Caribbean bishops, quoted in “The Joy of the Gospel,” paragraph
10.)
I was standing around with some other monks today after
Mass, enjoying a cup of coffee. Finally, I slipped away to go to my room to
read and pray and think about these reflections. The solitude I sought helped
me have something to offer to others. If I had been isolating myself, there
would be nothing to offer, and I would feel far less alive than I have
throughout this day.
In short, solitude is a source of blessing. Isolation
sources nothing. Choose wisely.
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