Life in Balance
Why did we name our mountain “Mt Solitude”?
Solitude and loneliness: Two words that we tend to use interchangeably. Of course, both mean ‘alone’ but there is a fine line between solitude and loneliness, which if understood, can change the way we lead our lives.
Loneliness brings restlessness. It makes the mind sprout negativity and sadness. We feel alone, cut-off, unwanted, unnoticed and unimportant even if we are surrounded by people. Loneliness depletes our energy and even if in the midst of people we love and know, feelings of intense loneliness can trouble our hearts. Sometimes, it drives us to a point where we even reject ourselves.
Solitude, on the other hand, is a positive feeling, which helps us to be in a state of balance. We are happy with ourselves and enjoy our own company. Solitude allows us to get in touch with ourselves and reflect on our lives. During the course of life, many of us turn into robots, going about things mechanically. We forget the purpose in life, and are only concerned with making enough money to lead a comfortable life. Without realising it, we lose our inner joy, creativity and inevitably, stop growing.
It’s at times like these that solitude helps. It leads us towards greater self-awareness, infuses creativity and boosts our growth. It restores us and gives us strength to visualise everything clearly. Loneliness, on the other hand, is imposed on us. If you can’t be happy with yourself, you will never really be happy among people. In solitude — I’m by myself but together with myself, whereas in loneliness, I am actually one, deserted by others. We must learn the difference between the two, and learn to enjoy solitude and be really happy.
Here at Mt Solitude we embody the state of balance we feel is necessary to move through life, through the world. Valued, heard, loved, and honored. Join us for a retreat, workshop, or as a resident as we explore all life has to offer.
With deep love & gratitude, Director Sean.
