“All of humanity’s problems stem from man’s inability to sit quietly in a room alone.” ~ Blaise Pascal

It’s important that we find time for solitude on a daily basis, just as we find time for food, sleep, exercise, brushing our teeth, etc.

It’s not practical for everyone to spend large amounts of time in solitude, but when it’s available it’s wise to take advantage of it. We can start with a few minutes per day and work our way up, like we would with a new exercise regime. The key is to start making it a habit.

When we spend too much time around other people we start to become like them. Their ideas, their fears, their negativity, all start to rub off on us. There are many positive things about spending time with others as well. But when we spend a disproportionate amount of time with others, we start to lose ourselves. We have to filter the influence of others through moments of solitude — through communion with ourselves and God.