The Voice in the Garden of Solitude

Solitude is the garden for our hearts, which yearn for love.
It is the place where our aloneness can bear fruit.
It is the home for our restless bodies and anxious minds.
Solitude, whether it is connected with a physical space or not, is essential for our spiritual lives.
It is not an easy place to be, since we are so insecure and fearful that we are easily distracted by whatever promises immediate satisfaction.
Solitude is not immediately satisfying, because in solitude we meet our demons, our addictions, our feelings of lust and anger, and our immense need for recognition and approval.
But if we do not run away, we will meet there also the One who says, "Do not be afraid. I am with you, and I will guide you through the valley of darkness."

Let's keep returning to our solitude.

-- Henri Nouwen