I love this time of day; when our heavenly fireball hides his face below the horizon.  No longer can we see his burning gaze directly, only the radiance of his reflection in the great blue mirror we call the sky.  The celebration of the end of his long journey is breathtaking.  His fireworks paint the firmament in a kaleidoscope of constantly changing colors.  And all we can do is pause, take a seat and enjoy the show.

     Such was this scene a couple of weeks ago near Stevenson Alabama.  I watch as a boy sits on a small pier in Coon Creek fishing; oblivious to the fact that someone is watching his relaxing sport.  I listen to the swish of his rod cutting through the air as he casts, the sputtering of his lure being pulled along the calm surface of the water.  Again and again I watch his serene efforts against the backdrop of this gorgeous sunset.  And the only thing I can think of is this, “It has been too long since I have done this!”

     How long has it been since you have taken the time to enjoy some good, old fashioned solitude?  Most people associate productivity with noise, haste and frantic activity.  When the truth is sometimes the most productive and healthy thing we can do is enjoy a little quiet time.  Solitude is the furnace of transformation.  It is in solitude that we discover that who we are is more important than what we have and that we are worth more than the result of our efforts.  In solitude we discover that our life is not a possession to be defended, but a gift to be shared.

     Today’s word is solitude.  Take a moment today to learn where the pause button is located.  You might find that you really enjoy the peace and quiet.  Remember, times spent recharging your batteries are a great investment.  We entered the world alone, we will leave it alone; but perhaps it is in solitude, when we are least alone . . .

Something to think about:

• Language has created the word loneliness to express the pain of being alone, and the word solitude to express the glory of being alone.

• A friend is one who helps you bridge the gaps between loneliness and fellowship, frustration and confidence, despair and hope, setbacks and success.

• Solitude, though it be silent as light, is like light, the mightiest of agencies.

• Practice the art of aloneness and you will discover the treasure of tranquility. Develop the art of solitude and you will unearth the gift of serenity.

Thankful that we are never truly alone
Rickey Moore