My son sent me this article. Although I, too, subscribe to Good News Network, somehow I missed it. Awe is such a simple word yet hugely powerful for solitude and perhaps for advancing equanimity and enjoyment of life.
US Surgeon General Vivek Murthy was featured on NPR not too long ago stating his concerns about a potential loneliness epidemic as it relates to social connection. I think we have to be careful about fear and a label of “loneliness epidemic” especially as it relates to people living alone such as myself. This article offers a more comprehensive, important view. I absolutely agree, “Being alone doesn’t necessarily lead to loneliness. Many of us appreciate solitude as a time for personal reflection, creativity, and spiritual enrichment, even as we enjoy our social ties too. Yet, if we equate solitude with loneliness, or don’t have a positive view of it, we may avoid it and lose its potential benefits.” Certainly, though, I do understand the need for and value of good, quality social connections. We need a balance.
https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/this_emotion_makes_solitude_more_enjoyable