Solitude can have the ability to allow one to reflect deeply on life. ALS, does exactly this. It's unintentional, but inevitable that the condition causes solitude. As hard as everyone tries to prevent it, it can't be avoided. ALS creates an imperceptible wall to the world in the form of physical, mental and engagement barriers. The gap grows until ALS runs its course gradually separating us from life and our loved ones.
One can, and is often surrounded by people, in advanced state ALS requires it, yet we feel alone. Why? It's due to the innate need and desire for physical contact. ALS creates an environment that is focused on clinical contact. What do I mean by this ? As our condition progresses we are perceived as fragile, thus all physical contact becomes care related, limited to that needed to deliver care. Eventually it is the only contact we receive.
This evolves imperceptibly, resulting in solitude, the solitude that leads to deep introspective reflection. Reflections that are lengthy walks through the halls of of our mind. Allowing inventory of our life. This can be like a tightrope walk, balance is essential to not fall, metaphorically speaking that is. These walks can lead to growth or may lead to detours through difficult terrain. Regardless, solitude can be an opportunity to walk again, even if it is just in one's mind.
TJO
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