The Power Of Solitude

I never imagined that my college years, initially filled with dreams of gridiron glory, would transform into a profound journey of solitude. My freshman year began with high hopes, starting my very first game at strong safety against the University of Central Florida, ended in a most shattering way as I suffered a fractured jaw from a tackling drill during practice. And that was just the beginning. Sophomore year brought stingers from tackling and shedding blocks triggered by my narrow spinal column and nerve damage. Junior year, I faced shoulder surgery due to a subluxation from an old high school injury. Finally, in my senior year, my worst nightmare; a torn ACL from a basketball game sidelined me yet once again. These injuries, while physically debilitating, catalyzed a spiritual awakening that ultimately reshaped my life.

The solitude imposed by my injuries forced me into a state of self-reflection. Being the social person that I am, I was accustomed to attention from the opposite sex, the constant company of teammates, the thunderous  roar of the crowd, and the structured chaos of football. Suddenly, I found myself alone, grappling with my thoughts and emotions, even experiencing depression. It was during this time, however, that I learned to be with myself and, more importantly, to be my best company. 

In those quiet moments, I turned to study, writing, meditation and prayer. These practices became my sanctuary, offering me a sense of peace and clarity that I had never experienced before. The Scriptures, particularly John 6:14-15, where Yeshua withdraws to the mountains alone after performing a miracle, captures the importance of solitude for those who are called to fulfill their purpose. Though my was not self-imposed, it did prepare to learn how to engage life on my own when confronted with challenges and success. The example of Yeshua illustrates the importance of solitude in cultivating a deeper relationship with YaH. That period of isolation allowed me to connect with my spirituality on a profound level, finding solace in the silence and comfort in the pain.

What I’ve come to learn is that solitude is not merely about being alone; it is a deliberate practice that leads to clarity and intimacy with oneself, creation and Creator. During my five years of involuntary solitude, I discovered several ways to embrace this practice and hope that you will find viable use of these exercises:

• Daily Meditation: Set aside time each day to meditate. This can be as simple as sitting in a quiet room, focusing on your breath, and letting your thoughts flow without judgment.

• Study: Dedicate time to study subjects that inspire and challenge you. Engaging with new ideas and knowledge can deepen your understanding of the world and yourself, providing fresh perspectives and insights.

• Prayer and Reflection: Use prayer as a means of connecting with YaH. Reflect on your day, your struggles, and your triumphs. Allow this time to be a conversation with the divine.

• Journaling and poetry: Write down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection and can help you understand your inner world better. Poetry is both therapeutic and mind clearing.

• Nature Walks: Spend time in nature, away from the distractions of daily life. The beauty and tranquility of the natural world can be incredibly grounding and restorative.

• Digital Detox: Limit your use of digital devices. Create pockets of time where you are free from the noise of social media, emails, and the internet.

Solitude, though at times challenging, is a necessary crucible for personal growth and spiritual development. It strips away the distractions, forcing us to confront our true selves. Through this process, we gain a profound consciousness and a deeper understanding of our place in the world. This is the essence of what creates sages—individuals who possess wisdom and clarity that can only be born from solitude.

My five-year season of solitude was not something I would have chosen, but it was a gift that reshaped my life. It taught me that true strength comes not from physical prowess but from the ability to be at peace with oneself. In the stillness, I found a connection with YaH that continues to guide me to this very day. And to this day, I strive to find moments of solitude in order to go within and ascend to a deeper level of life in connection with consciousness, creation and Creator.

My encouragement to you: embrace solitude; allow it to transform you, for it is in the quiet timespace of life where you will find the wisdom and clarity needed that lies within for the rest of your journey forward.

Selah