Sometimes it’s good to be trapped in solitude. Right now, as I sit on the balcony of a cruise ship, shivering, my nose is running from the cold. The only thing I have with me is my computer (with no internet), binoculars, and an empty cup of coffee. My hubby is inside the cabin sleeping and I don’t dare wake him up in hopes that he will sleep off his cold and our trip to Alaska will be saved.
As the ship inches thru the vast sea, I toggle between writing and looking for sea life hoping to see a whale. Just now, after typing that last sentence, I spotted dolphin jumping beside the ship! How exhilarating! I love typing and nature watching! (That’s a plug for all you two fingered typists to learn to type!)
It’s funny. Because when I saw the dolphin, my first instinct was to grab my phone (which I don’t have out here) and take a picture. It seems it doesn’t count if I don’t get a picture. What?! Why??!! That’s the way I think – do you?! I want to talk about that…
What “counts” to you? Are you like me, if others can’t see it, it doesn’t count? I realized the silliness of that thought – yet it’s still my first instinct.
I had a “friend”/acquaintance that would be an incredibly helpful friend when others could see. However, when someone needed help that wasn’t in her “circle” she wouldn’t go out of her way to help at all. If others couldn’t see her good deeds, it didn’t “count.”
In truth, what others can’t see is what really does count. That becomes the foundation for everything we are. So, let’s talk about that.
Who are you? In the quietness of your solitude? Granted, in solitude, we can’t exactly work on people skills, but we can certainly work on character building. Actually, we DO work on character building, whether we are aware of it or not. Those moments where we’re alone and nobody’s watching are the exact opportunities to grow ourselves or stunt our growth.
I know for me, when I’m alone, I often think I can eat a little something and no one will know. Hmmm, silly, isn’t it?! The scale will know, God will know, and my conscience will know. Those moments when no one is watching is what determines my weight, my health, who I see in the mirror, and what others see. Honestly, it’s those times of solitude – when I choose to do what’s right or wrong, that defines my true integrity.
Times of solitude are important – they are the building blocks of who you are. Solitude gives you a chance – without any inhibitions- to be who God created you to be. Embrace solitude and grow – like a seed planted in fertile soil!
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Michele Morin says
Char, I love this post, and I was seriously just thinking earlier today, “Do I have a blog so that I can write about my life — or do I have a life so that I can write about it on my blog?”
I hope that my heart always gives the right answer in reply.
Char says
Hi Michele, that’s an interesting thought… I hope I have the right answer because my heart is to encourage others in the little stories/lessons God shows me along the way. It seems everything is a lesson that I can learn from…
Sue Donaldson says
Enjoy!! Someone (roosevelt?) said: Character is what you are when nobody’s looking. so true. You are on a cruise. It would be hard not to indulge! Just take a lap around the deck – and, all those steps…
Char says
Hi Sue! I have been taking the stairs 95$ of the time, earning those desserts!- the legs are feeling it! I hear that saying resonating often in my head. Thanks for the reminder.
Lisa notes says
Sounds like you’re having a wonderful time! I’ve had my eye on an Alaska cruise for awhile, but haven’t looked fully into it yet…one of these days.
“Solitude gives you a chance – without any inhibitions- to be who God created you to be. Embrace solitude and grow.” I do love my solitude time!
Char says
Alaska is amazing – it’s easy to see God’s glory in all the beautiful landscape. I so admire you Lisa – wish I embraced solitude a bit easier.
Marilyn Lesniak says
Thank you for hosting another fun party. Have a blessed week.
Monica says
Char,
I’m praying for hubby to heal quickly. It sounds so exciting though… an Alaskan cruise. I hope that you have a fantastic trip.
Char says
Thanks Monica – He’s all better!
Joanne Viola says
Such a good post. Truly character is what we are when no one can see and no one would know. But then God always sees and knows as will we. Hope you enjoy the remainder of your post which was lovely even without photos 🙂 Blessings!
Cheryl says
I find solitude to be a gift that I give to myself. Every morning, regardless, if I have to be anywhere or not, I set my alarm for 5am; my kids and husband are still asleep. After showering, I dedicate the first half hour of my day to prayer/reflection and spiritual readings. I find the solitude with God my foundation to begin the day on a positive note and clear the slate from the previous day.
Char says
That’s a great plan! Good for you Cheryl for having the discipline to carry it out!