Solitude and loneliness are two different sides to being by oneself.

When you are lonely you long for companionship.

When you are experiencing solitude you give yourself time to engage in your deepest thoughts and needs without anxiety.

Loneliness compels us toward people whom we expect can meet our needs.

Solitude compels us toward people who will enrich our solitude with their entrance into our lives.

Loneliness scares us.

Solitude is welcome.

Loneliness defines us as 'less than' or 'partial.'

Solitude creates a wholeness that envelops the world.

And that's what I think about it.