Don’t be afraid of solitude. Sometimes taking some time alone is the best way to heal and get clarity on what you want from life. Vegans in particular can suffer sometimes from getting ‘too much in society’, as society is often not very kind or empathic to animals. Learning to be true to your own values and not really care for what others tell you ‘is the truth’, is a good chance to listen to your soul. We are (probably) here for many more lifetimes to come, so you are building up good karma, if you learn to live a life of authenticity and truth this time around! And if you are a Christian who believes in ‘grace’, then know that St Francis of Assisi was the patron saint of animal welfare, and likely more agreed with you than ‘the official Catholic Church’.
Here are some books about people who got away (or encourage you to do the same). Find a nice solitary place (like under a tree!) and enjoy them .
- The Circling Sky is a blend of childhood memoir and nature observation by Wainwright-prize shortlisted author Neil Ansell. The story of one man’s journey over a year to the of England’s key natural habitats – the New Forest of Hampshire. He returns for solitary walks, close to where he was born, observing birds, trees, butterflies, insects and landscape.
- The Art of Solitude is a book about reclaiming the pleasure of your own company. In a world where we are more connected than ever, why are so many people more lonely. This anthology of classic writing is edited by academic Zachary Seager. If we spend time alone, we can meaningfully connect with those around us, including the earth itself. Solitude is surprisingly, often the cure for loneliness. or loneliness.
- Live Alone and Like It is an update of a classic book from a 1930s magazine editor. With beautiful stylish line drawings, Marjorie encourages you to enjoy solo life (the book sold over 100,000 copies in 1936, within 2 months of release).
Wise Words on Solitude
There’s staggering power in leaving the world, and heading out into some solitude for at least an hour every day. Robin Sharma
If you can’t stand solitude, maybe you bore others too. Bob Gordon
Let me tell you this; if you meet a loner, no matter what they tell you; it’s not because they enjoy solitude. It’s because they have tried to blend into the world before, and people continue to disppoint them. Jodi Picoult
Blessed are those who do not fear solitude, who are not afraid of their own company. Who are not always desperately looking for something to do, something to amuse themselves with, something to judge. Paulo Coelho
I feel the same way about solitude as some people feel about the blessing of the church. I never close the door behind me, without the awareness that I am carrying out an act of mercy to myself. Peter Høeg
Introverts live in two worlds. We visit the world of people, but solitude and the inner world, will always be our home. Jenn Granneman
I would rather sit on a pumpkin and have it all to myself, than be crowded on a velvet cushion. Henry David Thoreau
