Being alone and feeling lonely aren't the same thing. As someone who prefers solitude, I have often felt more alone around others than just being alone by mysel

Being alone and feeling lonely aren't the same thing. As someone who prefers solitude, I have often felt more alone around others than just being alone by myself. I have also realized that not fitting in can be turned into a strength. It provides a freedom of sorts to live outside the rules established by society. I can live my life how I want and don't have to worry about what others think. Of course, a modicum of civility is always required when dealing with others, but nonetheless, very freeing to come up with my own rules.