Recently, I have desired to be alone.  I have wanted to be in complete silence.  I have had no desire to have company or to have conversations with friends and family.  However, achieving privacy in New York City is nearly impossible.  I spend most of my days surrounded by other people.  Whether or not I am in class, at work, interning, in my room (i have roommates), or simply commuting I always find myself in the company of someone else.

I felt guilty and selfish for not wanting to speak to others and not wanting to listen to their stories. However, I managed to justify my feelings by telling myself that everyone needs time to themselves every once in a while.  It is important to reflect on the day and to think and dream without outside distractions.  This is how I've been maintaining my sanity.  Solitude doesn't have to mean that you are lonely.  Being in solitude can be the perfect opportunity to learn, discover, and grow...just me, myself, and I.

"...the capacity to be alone is an aspect of emotional maturity." - Anthony Storr author of Solitude: A Return To Self.