“I spent a lot of time feeling alienated and lonely. But with all of that also came a real strong feeling of independence.”
– Henry Rollins
It’s Sunday afternoon. I sit alone at a coffee shop reading The Portable Henry Rollins
To most people my current lifestyle wouldn’t sound enjoyable. I’ll be the first to admit that it is occasionally lonely. However, most of the time it’s quite pleasurable. There’s a certain level of consciousness that can only be obtained once you’re alone. You disengage from the crowd, there’s no one telling you how to view the world. It’s quite refreshing.
Sometimes it’s nice to read a book and not comprehend it’s symbolism. Sometimes it’s nice to enjoy a poem without understanding any of it. I haven’t watched the news in two years. I didn’t vote and went to bed early on election night. The following afternoon was when I learned who won.
My isolation is a blessing. I have the perfect opportunity to join new social circles and meet new people. There’s literally nothing for me to lose by doing so. Near my house there’s a private college. Out of boredom and curiosity I visited it. I walked around all day, talked to new people, snuck into the library to flip through rare books, and got invited to a party.
As of now, I’m enjoying myself. I’ve met new people, went on two mini-trips, and have some goals that keep me busy. I know that you’re supposed to want to work up the corporate ladder, but that doesn’t appeal to me. In all honesty I’m pretty happy right now.