The other night, Gabe was out and I didn’t feel like cooking. So, I decided to go to Blue C Sushi for dinner. (Blue C Sushi is one of those conveyor-belt sushi places.) As I entered, the hostess greeted me and asked how many was in my party. I stood up tall, took a deep, nervous breath, and smilingly responded, “Just one.”
You're probably wondering why I would be nervous to ask for a table for one. Well, dining out alone is a relatively new concept for me. (Going to McDonald's for a fast bite or Starbucks for a drink is not the same as going to a sit-down restaurant!)
As most people know, I'm a social person, or a social butterfly as my cousin Linda likes to call me in college. I enjoy dining out with people. I enjoy doing things with people. I just enjoy being with people. One of the many reasons is... (drum roll, please!) I have a fear of being lonely.
Yes, it's true.
When I think of the word "lonely," I quickly associate the words "sad" and "boredom." First, who wants to be sad? And secondly, I hate being bored. Always have.
Yes, it's true.
When I think of the word "lonely," I quickly associate the words "sad" and "boredom." First, who wants to be sad? And secondly, I hate being bored. Always have.
But is being alone the same as being lonely?
I spent my twenties pondering that question. I asked a number of people about this, and I came to the conclusion that it isn’t. It’s all about the state of mind. If you're lonely, then it doesn’t matter how many people you’re with or surrounded by. And if you're happy, it doesn’t matter if you’re alone.
Pretty simple, huh?
Pretty simple, huh?
While I acknowledge that being alone and being lonely aren't the same thing, it’s still something I have to remind myself whenever I'm by myself. Since I've entered in my 30s, I've learned to enjoy shopping by myself. I'm comfortable with staying home by myself. And I don't mind sitting down for a bowl of Pho by myself.
Nevertheless, I still believe dining out is way more fun when you’re not doing it alone!
Care to join me?
Care to join me?
Comments
Good for you, girlie :)
I actually spent alot of time during my 30s going to restaurants as a "party of 1" -- it was quality time for catching up on a book or writing many pages of reflection in my journal.
I loved it!!
The next step for you:
going to a movie solo!!!
Pick a weekend matinee, order your soda/popcorn/candy of choice, and enjoy!!
Hugs,
~Michelle
-Jen
Your cuz,
Florence
As much as I love my family and friends, I relish those moments where I can grab a meal alone just to get caught up with myself...I read or sometimes I just people watch but usually behind sunglasses so folks don't think I am a stalker.
If is a movie I really want to see or somewhere I want to go but no shares the same enthusiasim (sp), I go by myself.
And in terms of being lonely or bored... I am sure we have all been to a party or gathering with lots of people and I have been bored out of my mind...and wished I was by myself. :)