Because My Soul Says It’s Time

I slipped into the warm, swirling waters of the hot tub. My legs were sore after several long hikes through old hemlock forests in the Appalachians of southern West Virginia.

It wasn’t long before I was in conversation with the only other occupant—a man I’d guess was about half my age. He told me he was an Army reservist, recently called up for duty to help residents nearby who were devastated by floods from the massive storms that have swept across the Central, Midwestern, and Mid-Atlantic U.S.

He leaned center-right politically; I lean center-left. Still, we had a pleasant conversation about the different ways we see the world. He shared firsthand stories from his service—insights about waste in government spending, about veterans he’s supported, and about the kinds of leadership that do (and don’t) make a difference. Eye-opening stuff.

I listened carefully, curiously. And I noticed: he appreciated having a “leftie” listen without judgment. But when it came to him listening to me, the space didn’t feel quite as open. That’s often been my experience. Many of my conservative-leaning conversation partners, bring a subtle deafness into our discussions — as if their viewpoint has been dismissed one too many times or are simply uninterested in dialogue.

But this post isn’t really about identity politics.

It’s about a question the sergeant asked, one that tugged on something deeper.

“Where’s your husband—or do you not have one?”
The chlorinated water swirled around his muscled shoulders.
“Back home in Phoenix,” I said.
His eyes widened.
“You travel by yourself… even though you’re married?”
“Several times a year,” I replied, smiling.
“Why on earth?” he asked.

I explained.

That I like to follow my own rhythms.
That I write best—most deeply—when I’m free of interruption.
That I crave solitude in nature more than my husband does; he prefers connection, conversation, companionship.
That I like the way solitude makes it easier for me to hear and honor my own voice.

For the rest of the story…head on over to Substack at:

https://drlmsp.substack.com/p/because-my-soul-says-its-time