Solitude & Companionship on the Path

Traveling solo for 10 weeks has been hugely empowering for me on many levels. My time alone has been filled with incredible freedom, spaciousness, exhiliration, and reflection. On this journey, I found something precious. . . I found solitude, without loneliness. One of the most important things I've discovered on this epic journey is that I'm really good company for myself. Even during the 3 days when I experienced acute loneliness, I found reserves within myself I didn't know I had, and I drew on the loving energy I knew was flowing my way from so many people in my life.

Being alone, does not mean you're necessarily lonely. And being in a relationship does not protect you from the ache of loneliness. This trip has given me a new appreciation for the gifts of spending time alone, even if it means experiencing waves of loneliness at times. When the loneliness comes, I try not to push it away immediately. I let myself feel it. It can be uncomfortable. In the past, I used to look for a way to distract myself and move away from the feeling. But on this trip, I didn't do that. I let the feeling come and I stayed with it. "I'm lonely" I said, out loud, one night. Hearing my own voice speak the words was startling and comforting at the same time. For me, there is a great benefit in acknowledging a wave of loneliness. It reminds me of the sweetness of companionship. The contrast helps me to more fully appreciate the gifts of genuine connection.

There was a lot of new, beautiful, genuine connection with other travelers on my trip. It was one of the most amazing and rewarding parts of my journey. I also had the comforting gift of companionship with 3 wonderful friends, as well as my mother. These special visits were planned in advance, and even though they were just a few days each, they nourished my spirit and gave me a boost along the path.

In Montana I visited my dear friend and former client, Erin Lunde Keenan and her husband Sean. They made a delicious home cooked dinner, which meant so much to me, after cooking for myself on a tiny propane stove and campfire for so many weeks. Erin took me on an evening hike above Missoula and we talked about finding one's vocation, living out one's values, and the challenge of moving through the world at a pace that can sustain us.

After Missoula, my mother joined me for 3 days at the end of my week in Glacier National Park. I booked a lovely B&B for us in West Glacier and we hiked together every day. At the age of 76, my mother continues to show me what it means to live a full, joyful, active, and authentic life. She is my inspiration and I cannot imagine who I would be today without her.

From Glacier I made a stop in Sandpoint Idaho to visit my dear friend, Ron, who I've known for over 20 years. Ron and I have been friends throughout many seasons of our lives, and his generosity and wisdom continue to be treasures to me. Ron is what I call a renaissance-hippie. He designed and built his own house, grows most of his own food, and lives a very intentional life. His garden is so beautiful and well cared for, it's hard to fathom how one person can tend to each plant so thoughtfully. The raspberries, the blueberries, the green beans, the tomatoes, the onions, the basil, the peppers, comprise a bounty that boggles the mind. Just being in Ron's garden is a healing experience.

Finally, my soul-sister, Erin Brigham, flew in from San Francisco to meet me at my final stop in Mt. Rainier National Park. Erin and I have known each other for 22 years and have supported each other through our greatest joys and challenges in life. There is no topic that Erin and I can't talk about together. The depth of trust we've created over time is a rare and wonderful thing. Plus, Erin is hilarious and she helps me see humor in the most unlikely places. The effort she made to meet me at Mt. Rainier meant so much to me, and the hikes, talks and dinners we had together are memories that will stay with me forever.

Being alone with oneself and knowing that all is well, is a powerful thing. No matter where my path leads, I know the gifts of solitude and companionship await me.