eremitism

I learned a new word today, and it hit me... it’s not just me. The need for silence and solitude is a way of renewal for many.

Hermit seems like such an old-timey word, and the practice. something almost ancient, but I guess the very act of eremitism (the practice of living in solitude, typically for religious or spiritual reasons, characterised by the withdrawal from society) makes perfect sense.

As social creatures our social batteries often do run out. Modern terms like “adulting” or “peopling” are often used to describe those moments when we’re overextended and in dire need of replenishment. We are constantly encouraged to be social, and the isolation or solitude is often severely undervalued or even actively frowned upon in a world where being loud is applauded and silence is viewed with suspicion:

“No, Brenda...I’m not a stuck-up or dumb...”

I would much rather shut up and think about what’s being communicated, or simply keep out of a skinner/ gossip sesh. And is it not a very adult thing to appreciate one’s own company, no matter how much we love others?
“I do love you but can I do it from waaaayyyy over here?”
I jest...but also not. My BS-metre, much like my Google storage capacity, is full and requires clearing.

So, what do I do with this priceless spate of aloneness?

Well, I stew, rot, and veg out. I embrace my ugly self, unapologetic about my quirks and whimsies. I chew loudly, I scratch wildly, and I lie much as I came into this world...legs flailing, arse out, upon a throne of discarded cushions.

Can you pop your head in the door without knocking? Hell no. You have no idea what you might find.
Can you knock politely, enter, and have a brief check-in? Most welcome.

And if you hear me giggling, something truly ridiculous is holding my attention.

It’s probably a meme sent by my fav bff... lol ...it’s most definitely a meme....

Am I capable of deep thought? Sure.

But is there secret pleasure to be had in the ridiculous? Also, yes.

And sometimes... all I’m actually doing is humming quietly to myself - no deep thoughts, no overthinking, just silliness.

And when this hermit is ready to re-engage with the world, she gives a nod to herself for recognising the exact moment she needed to step away and revel in the company of her own damn self.