Long ago I was taught how to explore myself, assessing my strengths and weaknesses. And, dealing with the difference between lonely and alone.  Here is something I refer to whenever doubts enter my mind about who I am, where I am headed and what I expect to find when I arrive.

Own the uncomfortable in-between where you experience the mélange of weird and wild. Play around in the lingering space that the world calls “loneliness.” Dance in your thoughts and make sure they don’t get too boring. Feel out the difference between your mind and everyone else’s and appreciate your inner-monologue as your longest standing friend.

Be alone. But never, ever, for as long as you live, be lonely.