There is a significant difference between being lonely and being alone. Loneliness is caused by a deficiency of the spirit a spirit that needs people or activity with regularity in order to feel a sense of worthiness, belonging or acceptance. Being alone can be seen as a positive opportunity to get to know and like yourself better while growing in wisdom, understanding and maturity.

The highest form of being alone is solitude. This is the time in life when you search out and choose to be alone.

Many people are alone out of choice, while others face this challenge due to a loss of a loved one or other circumstances. I have felt the sting of loneliness, and I have known the joy of solitude. The key is to understand the difference and realize its impact on your life and outcomes. I have known the heartache of loss and the peace of aloneness. There are four things you can do if you find yourself alone whether out of choice or circumstances beyond your control.

1. Use the time to get in touch with who you are, what you want, and what you believe.
2. Accept this time as an opportunity for creative growth.
3. Know that all things pass even the pain you are feeling.
4. Do something new. Try a new activity, reach out to others, learn a new skill or spend time with others who face the same circumstances. Take a course or class in something.

Feeling sorry for yourself during this time will only make the time pass more slowly and with a greater degree of pain. Get busy, get started, and you will be amazed at how you can use this time for good for yourself or for others.

There is a reason why you are alone nothing in this life is an accident. I know this may be difficult for you to accept if you have lost the love of your life but believe me, suffering in silence will not help.