Hi – I don't have much to say other than thank you: for being here, for listening to this podcast, for reading these goofy updates, for interacting with me in whatever way you do. I'm wishing you comfort and joy wherever you are.
I was feeling disconnected this holiday week. It felt so different from last year when everyone's world seemed smaller due to the phase of the pandemic we were in.
Now that everyone's circles have opened up (mine included) I had alone time & space. This felt uncomfortable, until I realized it was a wish being granted. I had been saying I needed space to “molt” or go within this time last year, but now that I had that open space in my calendar –I wanted to fill it, like I always do.
I have to prioritize open space like I prioritize the activities, people, and obligations I fill space with. This is not an option for everyone. I know many people who have family and work situations that don't allow for much, if any, solo time. They relish their solitude and have taught me to see time alone as a privilege and to savor it.
As Twyla Tharp puts it, “Alone is a fact, a condition, when no one else is around. Lonely is how you feel about that.”
I'm improving at solitude. But after stretches of time surrounded by people, it's still jarring to be alone again. It takes warming up, but soon I find a rhythm with myself again. Similarly, when I come out of a hibernation, I'm a little rusty around others at first.
Today I am both grateful for solitude and for having people to call when I do feel overly isolated. I believe we are all connected and feel that even when I'm alone. Quality time with myself is as important as with others.
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My friend Zoë sent me this this episode of On Being which I found quite comforting in my pocket of solitude. ***
And I was interviewed a couple times recently:
1) I shared a few of my favorites here. 2) I was on my friend Jess's new podcast talking about gratitude journaling among other things including writing, love languages and my first date here.
So much below including are 2 episodes, codes, updates, + way more….
Thank you again.
Love,
Katie
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