I could never be alone in the years when I was in active addiction or dysfunction, and I never wanted to be. I thought that wanting time alone was somehow antisocial.
Nothing feels further from the truth for me today. As I've grown in my recovery, it's become apparent to me that one of my absolute favorite things to do is spend several days in a row in complete solitude.
The pandemic cemented how true this was for me, and the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic reminded me how important it is to make time for what we love and need. Taking some time in solitude is a gift that we give ourselves; it's not as likely that others in our life will gift it to us.
We can use the time to rest, to refuel, to create, or to be completely unproductive. The gift is in the freedom of doing solely what we want or need.
I know it's not easy for most to carve out days of solitude, but if you can, try to carve out at least an hour in solitude here and there. You will thank yourself.