"Are You comfortable being alone?"

Yesterday, while doing errands with a friend, I found myself alone for an hour or more while she kept an appointment. Usually I travel with either a book or some handwork, but I had neither with me. We were parked in a safe protected location so I remained in the car to rest and enjoy the lovely spring day. No phone, no computer, no interruptions of any kind. I was totally alone with myself.

A few years ago this would have been extremely stressful, almost frightening, but now whenever I am alone I am comfortable and at peace. I am an active participant in an on-going on-line Mental Cleanse program and I have grown so much through this activity.

First I went in my mind to my perfect day. This is a tranquil place I have chosen as a special location where I go for rest and relaxation, to be alone. It is a beautiful, positive place where I can meditate, emptying my mind of toil and turmoil and finding peace and joy. Here I seek and find the daily guidance I need.

The previous week had been busy and filled with stress. A beautiful friend and spiritual leader of mine had passed away. I was not sad for her as she had been in great pain and failing health. And, in truth, I was not sad for myself. Her teaching and spirit filled life will continue to guide me, and the many life lessons she taught will be with me always. How fitting that her passing occurred during Holy Week. Yes, this special lady went Home for a grand Easter this year.

My time alone continued. I rested and prayed. I was at peace. Then I began to seek direction for my writing and my network marketing business. Can I combine my joy of writing with building my home-based business? Yes, I am seeing ways of doing this, but I must become very focused and disciplined to find the balance with both of these endeavors. And, at the same time, I must learn not to neglect either my quiet alone time or my health and wellness exercises. These must always be a routine part of taking care of myself.

Several different pieces of writing await my attention. Our monthly writers group meets this week and we always share new material we are working on. I have been neglecting this blog. And, I look forward to our annual Writers Conference this summer and plan to submit one or two pieces there.

And then the challenge - A couple weeks ago I joined a writing marathon. The goal is to write and post to Ezine Articles 100 articles in 100 days. I am realistic enough to understand that I may not reach the finish among the winners, however, I am finding that I have greatly increased my writing production and I look forward to having a goodly number of articles posted by the first of July. In accomplishing this I will meet my personal goal for participation in the marathon challenge.

Almost before I am ready an hour had passed and my friend is back at the car. It was time to return home and go back into the real world. We had had a very productive day. And, for me, the time I spent alone was among the high points of the trip. All too often I fail to schedule enough alone time into my busy days, but this very important part of every day is something I need to do for myself.

Yes, it is good for me to spend uninterrupted quiet time alone - the reward is remarkable, the guidance is wise, and the rest is rich.

Do you have a problem being alone with yourself? Want more information about the Mentoring For Free Mental Cleanse program? Contact me for further info - this program has changed my life.

Jane Avery (c)