"I Choose to be Alone."

deepwaterdotter · ‎03-09-2010

While waiting for my dental appointment yesterday, I overheard a conversation between two folks also in the waiting room. They were discussing their plans over the Christmas holiday.

Both mentioned that they would be spending their time alone at home. One said that they had no family that they would be comfortable spending time with. They said, "I choose to be alone." The other lamented that their family members lived too far away, and that driving that far was "out of their comfort zone".

Although I felt a bit sad for both of them, I think everyone needs to do what they feel is most comfortable for their situation.

To You and Yours a Happy Holiday, whatever you choose.

mrshckynut · ‎06-19-2011

@deepwaterdotter as we get up in age there are many reasons a person is alone, some by choice. I am away from home for my Pet Sitting Business which I started shortly after I retired. I however have 3 beautiful canines spending Christmas with me.

Merry Christmas to you

mrshckynut

MamaWick · ‎03-09-2010

PapaWick and I are very happy being by ourselves on the holidays.

My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness ~ Dalai Lama XIV

When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace ~ Jimi Hendrix

tansy · ‎01-02-2011

Merry Christmas to you, @deepwaterdotter.

We don't have decent Chinese food anywhere so I was envious of your plans. It was our New Year's Day tradition.

Mom2Dogs · ‎03-09-2010

This year it is just me and DH...we had Christmas with our grands and their parents last Saturday. I am more than thrilled to be alone on Christmas day (well not alone, DH is here).

I am exhausted from work and do not want to have to entertain anyone. We are eating finger food on Christmas day as I am not preparing a meal, my husband can barely boil water so we are eating what I want to prepare.

Merry Christmas to all.

BlueFinch · ‎08-31-2019

Being alone for Christmas, in many cases, is not a bad thing. There's a difference between being alone and lonely.

DH and I worked over a decades worth of long Eves and Christmas day shifts. NY became the time we would entertain, with the house packed with friends and family. A couple of times, we'd head out for a celebratory location, but most preferred being at our home. It was fun, but a lot of work, and expense, too.

Getting together stopped when DH passed. I found I really didn't miss it. While I had pressure from several to socialize and get out more, I just wasn't feeling it. I chose to be alone, more and more. Instead, I rescued a three year old German Shepherd/Lab.

I was satisfied with good movies, or a great book and the company of my dog. Sadly, my precious (15 year old) dog passed in June of this year. So, this year has actually been difficult for me. Even my neighbors are missing my dog. I've come to realize how much he was a therapy dog for all of us. It just came natural for him, well after training for about 6 months when adopted. He had been a street gangster, but was so smart, sweet and loving. It just took time.

So, this holiday season, I wouldn't change a thing with my solo activities. I did enough celebrating in years past. The only thing that is crushing my heart is the absence of my dog. I just have to keep reminding myself of the wonderful gift he was in my life, as well as the friends and family who have passed, as well. Far, too, many.

I feel like I'm surrounded by ghosts of the past. Everyone has a different history, needs and experiences. Being alone can be a healthy choice, in many circumstances.

Laura14 · ‎06-09-2014

@BlueFinch I am missing mine too. I know exactly what you mean about ghosts. Big hugs!

Enufstuff · ‎03-12-2010

@tansy When my five children were growing up, we weren't

going out to New Years Eve parties.

Like you, our tradition was to take the children out for

Chinese food on New Years Day.

The restaurant that I went to with my family as a child

more than 60 years ago, is still here. There is a different owner now, but the food is the same and still great.

FranandZoe · ‎03-09-2010

I'm home alone with my kitty today/tonight but tomorrow I'll go to my former daugher in law's and be with her and her family.

I don't mind being alone today or any day. I did some errands this morning, I've been shopping online, and reading. And doing a few chores.

Alone - not lonely. I do miss my husband though especially on holidays.

My brother invited me to go to my nephew's but I declined.

feline groovy · ‎07-29-2014

Thanks for the wishes and right back at you. 8)

I don't choose to be alone but life just turned out that way.

I haven't had any family for the last 30 years nor any friends for the last 20.

My life has been very unusual and most would not understand the situation or circumstances. But I'm thankful I'm an introvert and can pretty much handle the "soloness" most of the time.

You're right that each person should do what's best for them.

But it's important to note that not everyone is lucky and blessed, whether it be by good family and friends, agency and autonomy, health and safety, money and resources, or any other good fortune.

*Happy Holiday Season to all*