For some reason this morning, I awoke reflecting on the number of people who were in my space when I was in the misery of a failing marriage and are now nowhere to be found. Some of them I now realize were only in my space because perhaps it made them feel better about the misery they were in and in most instances I believe they are still in today. Furthermore, I believe that by making changes to change my condition, I removed the commonalities that I now have to accept were the only commonalities that ever truly existed.
I’ll admit there are times when I reflect on the spaces these individuals filled-some who were by my sick bed listening to every report of the doctor concerning my cancer diagnosis and some who were childhood friends, a part of sleepovers and more like family than some actual kinship-the pain of the loss sometimes seems too much to bear.
The biggest thing I’ve learned through this leg of my journey is that doing what’s right is risky and takes great faith. From God’s perspective the loss that comes with being willing to make the major changes is miniscule when compared to the rewards He promises.
If you believe there is any truth to the saying “misery loves company”, then be confident in the “blessings” that come from being alone. Get to know yourself, exercise, become the you God created you to be. Remember how fearfully and wonderfully He made you (Psalm 139:14). Remember He is working in you to will and do His good pleasure (Phil 2:13). Do not throw away your confident trust in the Lord. Remember the great reward it brings you! Patient endurance is what you need now, so that you will continue to do God’s will. Then you will receive all that He has promised. (Hebrews 10:35-36).
As we approach the day focused on “love” and “lovers” be okay with being by yourself. Buy yourself a rose and pick out your favorite box of chocolates. After all who knows them better than you. Stop letting the world define this time as “lacking” and remember the reasons and seasons that led you to this place. Reflect on the additional time you have to do “you” in this season and be thankful- for you have no idea how soon the season may change. Always know that if there is breath in your body and a reasonable portion of health and strength, you are blessed-even if you are also alone!