Living in the In-Between Time
I hope this period of isolation will help us turn to self-reflection.
I am living in-between these days. In between isolation and social interaction. In between isolation and reflection. In between myself. Wow, am I philosophizing? I do believe I am.
In this time of isolation, though, I sense an urge, deep in my spirit, to reflect on what is happening around me and in me. I think many of us are feeling the same way, too. That is a lot to consider.
I don’t mind being isolated. I treasure aloneness because I’ve never been alone. Ever. I’ve always cared for people — my brothers, my kids, and even now, in my waning years, a grandchild.
Being alone allows me to read and get lost in adventures. I become a time traveler observing people in the past and how they embraced isolation. I can go up on a mountain with the Biblical David who wrote the 23rd Psalm while he tends his flocks in the high pastures. Eavesdrop as he composes songs of praise on his lyre.
Or sit beside William Ernest Henley’s hospital bed in the tuberculosis isolation ward in the 1800s. There he penned my favorite poem, Invictus.
In-between isolation and reflection.
There is an inscription written on the Temple of Delphi, To Know Thyself. At first glance, you might think, What does this mean? I know who I am. But do I really?
Now, that we are isolating from one another, I believe we could all benefit from becoming more self-aware. Did you know becoming self-aware is a skill that can be practiced? Mindfulness meditation helps in that endeavor.
Mindfulness builds resilience and awareness to help you learn how to navigate stress and crisis in your life and to live happier and healthier.
Also, isolation enables us to listen for and heed the voice of the spirit, whether it is yours or the spirit of the Divine. To grasp the intangible things. Like peace and joy. Feel your heart swell to overflowing and your spirit will soar.
Often during states of reflection, your subconscious creates solutions to problems you are facing and answers the questions you are asking. At least, that is what happens to me. Even Matmatgandhi tells us:
Solitude is the catalyst for innovation.
In-between isolation and myself.
Isolation also gives me the opportunity to work on myself. Right now, as I write these words to you, I am breathing deeply. My mind is clear, and I feel energized. I believe it is time to ponder my purpose. Will it change during the in-between time?
I realize my plans may change during this time. A re-assessment of my life is in order. Changing my goals is nothing new to me, but what shall I do that is meaningful tomorrow?
However, that depends on your definition of meaningful. I know I want to impact the world, but how? After much trial and error, I crafted a plan to create a vision for myself. A Vision Statement.
How do I plan to accomplish my vision? It is through my words that I convey thoughts to encourage and empower you living in the in-between time.
After our imposed isolation is over, what is the next step? Will our perception of each other change? Do you think we’ll embrace one another? Or continue to socially isolate? I intend to reach out more to my family, friends, and those in need to stay connected in word and deed.
After living in the in-between time.
Are you living in-between? Try breathing the Word of God and see what happens.
Debbie Walker is a great-grandmother, blogger, and writer with a BA in Psychology. Her vision is to help others live the life they aspire to live…one word at a time. Stay in touch with her at [email protected]