The Bliss of Solitude
Edna waved her frail hand in the doorway, watching the car depart the driveway.
They had all gone.
The elderly woman was left alone once more in the house.
She was a grandmother whose daily interlude was long overdue, after performing the duty of parenthood for her precious grandchildren.
Edna forever remained her family’s devoted babysitter, even going far above and beyond to pamper her life’s legacy. After all, she was their beloved “nanna” – how could she not treat them to sweeties and other baked goods? However, before they left, Edna discreetly snuck in each of the children’s palms a five pound note (averting her son and daughter-in-law’s attention). She knew they’d adamantly disapprove, like they always did.
All the family bid her farewell, each of the children showering their nanna in kisses and hugs.
Now they were gone and time stood still.
The rest of the afternoon was hers and hers alone.
She followed the sounds of solitude. Taking a quiet moment to herself.
The kettle hissed as the water boiled. The ginseng tea bag brewed in the mug. Edna nestled the cup of bliss by the coffee table.
A sigh eased from her lungs when she sprawled out on the sofa. Relaxation enveloped Edna in a comforting embrace. Her neck and shoulders unwinded, her back reclined, her hips and feet loosened.
A tranquil moment did wonders for her soul.
Even a simple sip of tea unshackled an aaaaahhh.
As she settled into her seat cradling a book, Edna primed herself for cherished repose.
No matter how long she remained here, the world would still be there waiting for her.
For now, she delayed her return to duty.
Enraptured in a fictional world on the sofa, Edna basked in the bliss of solitude throughout the evening. Only finally getting up when it was time for her to make supper for one.
Tomorrow’s inventory of chores and errands lurked on the horizon. Despite the anticipation of another hectic day, Edna’s mind and body were enlivened once again for the monumental occasion.
For the moments of solitude were more than enough to recharge her weary soul.
We often take for granted the importance of a quiet moment to oneself. A fundamental nature of living is the balance between work and rest.
Day 29 - This piece was posted as part of the 31 Days of Content Challenge that I undertook in March 2022.