Solitude for the mother who escapes the constant needs of little ones for a moment,

Isolation for the one sick in the hospital longing for a visitor.

 

Solitude for the businessman taking a week off on a distant island,

Isolation for the widow weeping at the graveside.

 

Solitude for the one living off the grid in the peaceful wilderness,

Isolation for the one lost in the dark woods.

 

Solitude for the one that slips on their headphones on a busy sidewalk,

Isolation for the one slipping relentlessly into the grip of dementia.

 

Solitude for the one taking a peaceful walk through the park,

Isolation for the one who makes the park bench their bed.

 

Solitude is being alone by choice,

Isolation is having no choice but to be alone.

 

– Diana Kristine