Seclusion: The Price of Greatness
Why time alone with God renews the soul and deepens our spiritual life
“Seclusion is the price of greatness,” said Paramhansa Yogananda.
Why would this be so?
Most of us, at one time or another, have found ourselves praying, “God, if I could just get some time alone…” And we usually finish that sentence with something like: “…then I’d be able to think straight,” or “…then I could get some perspective.”
The truth is, time alone with our deeper selves is one of the healthiest things we can do.
When that time is coupled with the intention of connecting with the Divine Friend — or with our own Higher Self — breakthroughs can happen that might never come otherwise.
The Soul’s Need for Silence
As a meditator serving God in others at a beautiful retreat, I find that even in this environment I still crave seclusion.
The need to spend time with God — time that could be a few days, or even a week — where I read, write, meditate more deeply, keep silence, and unplug from outward involvement is vital to my continued service and my own spiritual growth.
You are made the same as I am. Yet sometimes we don’t listen to that inner voice that quietly says:
“It’s time to be alone with my Self… with my Creator.”
The Lingering Gift of Seclusion
The last seclusion I took in February still lingers with me. I continue to reflect on the deep meditations I experienced, and on the simple joy of silence — of just being rather than constantly doing.
In our world today, we often hear phrases like:
“Take care of yourself.”
“Be good to you.”
“Do something nice for yourself.”
Instinctively, we know we must be filled up again in order to continue living with energy, purpose, and joy.
But getting your nails done, buying a new outfit, or purchasing a new toy doesn’t truly satisfy the soul.
These pleasures are fleeting. Even a new car loses its luster after a few weeks. Such things rarely make us better people or add anything lasting to our character.
What Truly Nourishes Us
Listening to the still inner voice…
Speaking with our Creator in gratitude…
Being reminded of what is truly valuable…
These are the real keepers.
To read about the lives of saints, to spend time in nature, to nurture the spirit and quiet the mind — these bring lasting renewal.
Even physically, we benefit, because the body becomes relaxed and at ease.
Living in the World, But Not of It
Seclusion is the price of greatness because this sacred time gives us the wisdom to live in the world — but not be of the world.
It reconnects us with what matters most.
An Invitation
At Ananda Meditation Retreat, guests are warmly welcomed to take time for personal retreat and seclusion in a peaceful forest setting. Whether for a weekend of renewal or a longer period of silence and spiritual deepening, seclusion offers the opportunity to rest, meditate, and reconnect with God within.
To learn more about personal retreats and seclusion opportunities, please visit our website or contact us at:
In Divine Blessing,
Nayaswami Brindey