Solitude

13 April 2011Rachel H

Brentonians typically travel in packs. Grade 9 girls decked out in Lulu Lemons and bright zip up hoodies are like schools of fish in their worn Uggs as they dart about campus, constantly needing to be somewhere. Grade 11 boys stroll coolly across the basketball courts, all with limited edition Nikes and designer jeans, the alpha male easily identified. The social code here seems to point to the notion that constantly being surrounded by people is the norm, and has those brave souls who dare to eat alone in Crooks Hall looked upon with a mixture of pity and misunderstanding.

Brentwood is undeniably a busy and social school, which is part of why it is such a wonderful place, but it can starve its student body of an essential ingredient. Solitude. Everyone is so wrapped up in their academics and activities, that there are very few moments where one can be alone. This is a travesty, considering our beautiful setting. The extensive beach and forest surrounding campus are, sadly, often ignored.

In order to keep inner mental peace, the packed schedule of the typical Brentonian simply must be peppered with moments of solitude. For the few that know and live this idea, walks on the rocky beach stretching around campus can really help ease stress. Strolls through the forest behind the metropolis of Mill Bay can be re-centering. Essentially, one needs some quiet moments alone to stay sane.

Others might misunderstand the desire to be alone. Others might whisper not so subtly, commenting on your lack of comrades, and what that must say about you. Teachers might assume you are troubled, and need guidance, but be brave, and soldier on, for many of life’s most precious moments are lived within the mind looking upon a beautiful scene, completely alone. "Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence." Max Ehrmann, Desiderata, 1927

Where Students Choose To Be