Solitude: A Poem About Choice

Some people say I'm lonely, and at times that might be true.
Yet, I find more often that I would call it solitude.
I've always been a loner - needing time all to myself;
and often found my solitude was valued more than wealth.

Convention says, "Don't live alone" and I believed that true,
so I made that fateful error of trying life for two.
I found myself resenting never having time alone
knowing my spouse expected me to stay close to our home.

The walls were closing around me - I felt I could not breathe.
Then I realized my error and knew I had to leave.
You ask if I regret it - would I do the same again.
And do I not feel lonely when I hear the falling rain.

Now it's my turn to question if you live a life your own.
Do you really have the freedom to walk the woods alone?
I've walked alone in wooded hills, marveling at their beauty.
Picked the lovely buttercups - not feeling it my duty.

Alone, I've walked the beaches welcoming the morning sun.
And just because I felt the urge, I'd dance and sing and run.
I've had the time to listen to a friend in deep despair,
grateful for the opportunity that I could be there.

I have shared my love with many, not just a chosen few
and never had to fear that it might be misunderstood.
I've let the phone ring off the hook - I chose to lie in bed;
turned down an invitation, for I chose to read instead.

You say I must be lonely living life not made for two,
well you may call it loneliness
I Call It Solitude!