In the spiritual life we have to make a distinction between two kinds of loneliness. In the first loneliness, we are out of touch with God and experience ourselves as anxiously looking for someone or something that can give us a sense of belonging, intimacy, and home. The second loneliness comes from an intimacy with God that is deeper and greater than our feelings and thoughts can capture.
We might think of these two kinds of loneliness as two forms of blindness. The first blindness comes from the absence of light, the second from too much light. The first loneliness we must try to outgrow with faith and hope. The second we must be willing to embrace in love. Henri Nouwen
still and silent with Sandy
5 comments:
I understand completely what you try to say. With Fm/CFS I spend many days alone, but that never leaves me alone for I have the joy of living in our Pappa's Loving Embrace. Especially when the pain are very bad, I just crawl deep into His arms and I have so much time to jus sit at Jesus' feet. What can be better!
Much love XX
Mia
oh to be lonely in the right way! beautifully said.
your photo is beautiful.
Good thinking, sharing, photo. I caught myself immediately smiling when I pulled the photo up and saw it was YOUR post. Always want to "see" you. Thanks much as usual.
I receive Henri Nouwen's daily devotional by e-mail. His words, so many times, describe the longings I feel. They send me back to the only well with Water that satisfies. I'm glad to see you are also encouraged by him. Have a beautiful week-end.
Very thought provoking.
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