I used to be afraid to spend time alone. I always hadthe television or radio on so I wouldn't have to be alone with my thoughts. I've now come to cherish the time I have with me. I love the solitude and quiet.

I came across the following poem today:

Do not be afraid to embrace the arms
of loneliness.
Do not be concerned with the thorns
of solitude.
Why worry that you will miss something?
Learn to be at home with yourself
without a hand to hold.
Lean to endure isolation
with only the stars for friends.
Happiness
comes from understanding unity.
Love
arrives on the footprints of your fear.
Beauty
arises from the ashes of despair.
Solitude
brings the clarity of still waters.
Wisdom
completes the circle of your dreams.

- Nancy Wood