Saturday, April 24, 2010

Personal Isolation

Two patterns of personal, self-imposed isolation are quite obvious.

The result of both patterns is largely the same, the differences are evident in the initial feelings that create them. Arrogance is seen as a major source of such isolation. People seem to believe that they are above the opinions and help of others. They keep their own counsel as they do not value the advice of others. Even when they do deem to converse with people, they do not truly listen. They would rather wait for an opportunity to speak rather than an opportunity to listen.

A second emotion that brings out these patterns is one that is seen as a less common one. I would maintain that fear is the main source of personal isolation. Low self-esteem can easily lead to a person closeting themselves away. Whether it is out of fear of rejection or in an attempt to hide what they believe are their own flaws. In this sense low self-esteem is circular, as it festers in a person that has chosen to isolate themselves.

In either case, a lack of understanding or empathy is evident in these people. We all seek solitude at times and long for tranquil time away from others. The problem arises when this solitude becomes a substitute for human contact, rather than a break from it. To understand that you are no worse or better than other people is a fundamental need for personal development.

Unfortunately it is not so easy to understand this need and as a result, many will suffer alone.

-The English Student

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