#amomentwithmaghie

Before delving into how to design your own seclusion, I would like to share a few notes made prior to this sprint:

• Seclusion defines us, and re-defines us. In isolation, thought input is strictly internal. Often, thought output is silenced, and the process of finalizing the thought speech, the process that gives a thought reality outside of the conscious mind, shuts down. Speech becomes unnecessary, almost a hassle. Thoughts process with such speed that reality is often skewed without the ability to bring outside perspective within the realm of self. Although the natural process of communication is still accessible, Self takes over in order to survive. Self begins to compensate for the lack of natural social interaction, and begins to adapt to find stability. By accepting the seclusion, Self begins to create its unique identity. The inward thoughts can take over, thus resulting in physical, emotional, and spiritual changes. These changes can be charged based on the individual’s perspective and experiences.
• Personally, the more social distance I experience, the more I feel like I don’t understand how others operate and function due to the lack of stimuli. My patience for what I deem is unacceptable becomes little to non-existent, as these were complications I did not experience in Self. The re-introduction into social inclusion takes a moment of readjustment. The ability to communicate verbally lessens, although written word remains high. Strangely, the desire to help others, be it remotely, seems to suggest that the innate social connection is not easily broken, even during seclusion.
• With this being said, seclusion is not really about being alone. It is about defining yourself, and then re-defining your social needs, while being honest, and free of judgment. It is possible for seclusion to lend to a productive design for growth.

~Maghie Raye