On Ice - Isolation due to Illness

When you read the words "on ice" what picture came to mind? Was it a bottle of wine being chilled on ice, a shrimp cocktail on ice, ice skating or a hockey game being played on ice? Or maybe it was something more literal like "skating on thin ice", or on ice as in waiting or chilling out. I think it would be safe to say that it didn't conjure up any images of solitary confinement or self-imposed social isolation. 

Social isolation usually occurs when a person is separated from other people on a regular basis or for extended periods of time. We don't consider that to be unusual when someone who is suffering from grief voluntarily opts into a state of solitude. This is called self-imposed isolation. We allow it for a short time, after which they need to snap out of it or we assume it is linked to depression. It rightfully may be, and depression is always considered to be a bad  and permanent condition. 

As children being sent to our room and isolated from family and friends was a punishment. That is a view many of us still hold even in adulthood. Honestly, who in their right mind would voluntarily choose isolation?  Isolation is only deemed acceptable when it is a medical necessity to keep others from contacting a contagious illness.  

Substitute the word solitude for the word isolation and it takes on a whole new appearance.  Solitude is considered a state of seclusion, (which is still isolation) or a lack of contact with people. It may stem from a deliberate choice, a bad relationship, an infectious disease, mental or neurological disorders, the circumstances of employment, unemployment  or other life situations. 

Short-term solitude is often viewed and valued as a time when one may work, think, or rest without being disturbed. Also it may be a choice due to the desire for the sake of one's personal privacy.

It is often difficult to make a distinction between solitude and isolation. In a sense, these words both seem to refer to loneliness, or the joy and pain that comes from being alone.

"The whole value of solitude depends upon one's self; it may be a sanctuary or a prison, a haven of repose or a place of punishment, a heaven or a hell, as we ourselves make it." ~ John Lubbock

Sometimes my pain and illness make it necessary for me to go into a self-imposed isolation. This short-term period of solitude doesn't mean that I am depressed, nor that I am suffering from mental issues. It simply means that my physical limitations have made it necessary for me to take the time to nurture myself. 

The exhaustion that comes as a result of chronic fatigue, and the sleepless nights due to pain, takes a great toll on me. I require these times of solitude to recuperate.  In order to restore my body's equilibrium physically, mentally, spiritually and emotionally. 

At times I'm not up to talking on the phone. I hope my friends know that this doesn't mean I don't value their friendship.  It just means that for now a text message or e-mail are the best ways to communicate with each other. When my emotional reserves are depleted I don't wish to drag either us down by focusing on the negatives that I am presently dealing with.  

Sometimes, I'll admit that I do get lonely, but knowing that I have friends and family who love me and are there for me helps to keep things in the proper prospective. This includes my wonderful Facebook friends, who because of today's technology, makes it possible for me to  communicate with someone at any time of the day or night.

When I am home bound I don't equate it to being exiled to Siberia, or being held as a prisoner. My home is, and has always been my haven and sanctuary. A place where I can relax, restore, recoup and renew my energy. 

Some may think my illness is an excuse for laziness or even my isolation is pure craziness on my part. Truthfully, it is more of a way of acknowledging my fragility, so I don't let this vulnerability shatter me into a million pieces. My faith in God is what sustains me.

Time spent praying and reading scripture draws me near to God and draws him nearer to me. You see, I've learned that this is essential for me because there are often times in life when I don't "feel" his presence. Life events have a way of changing our focus, and I can't let my "feelings" and emotions mislead me into thinking that God doesn't care about what I am going through.  

"The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged." ~ Deuteronomy 31:8  (NIV)

Remember that things aren't always what they seem. You see me, but I may not look sick. You don't see my illness because it's hidden within me. You may not see God, but I know he is real because he lives within my heart! 

"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." ~ Philippians 4:7 (NIV)

Wishing you God's peace that passes beyond the emotions and limits of our human understanding. Be blessed! :)