LIVE ALONE - Beauty of SOLITUDE
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 ก.ย. 2024
- The world is more connected than it's ever been before. We can communicate instantly with our friends and family who live miles apart, thanks to the power of social media. And yet... why do so many of us still feel lonely?
Feeling lonely is a normal human experience - it is something we all go through. And it's not simply a function of being alone. You can feel lonely in a crowd. Because loneliness is a feeling of being alienated from others, not feeling understood or connected - it’s a feeling that something is missing.
But loneliness is also a message that our body sends us, letting us know that we are important, and we need to become friends with ourselves again. When we feel isolated or alone, we can choose to have compassion for ourselves. We can recognise our emotions without judging them. When we accept where we are at and what we are struggling against, without berating ourselves, we can then begin to change.
In order to defeat loneliness, we have to listen to its message - You are complete, nobody is needed, you are enough!
Filmed in Groot-Marico, South Africa.
Featuring Johann Moolman (www.art.co.za/...)
All of our films are made possible through the generous support of our patrons.
To be part of this journey : / reflectionsoflife
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In collaboration with iNous, we recently released a beautiful deck of 52 cards - each card containing a quote from one of our films, paired with the activating visual muses of Lanon Prigge. The aim of this deck is to rekindle child-like curiosity and creativity, helping to navigate the shared waters of our human experience with grace and joy. If you’d like to consider purchasing your copy, shop here - tgc.link/refle...
Who is Reflections of Life? We are Justine and Michael (previously known as Green Renaissance). We use our passion for filmmaking and our love of storytelling, to remind our audience of one simple truth - that we are all human. The more that we understand and believe in this interconnectedness, the more we will treat ourselves, one another, and planet earth with a greater sense of compassion.
Editing - by Amy Cupido and Justine du Toit
Music sourced from ArtList - bit.ly/2KfrAt2
Cold - by Borrtex
Creativity (Theta) - by Yotam Agam
Enter (Reworked) - by Christopher Galovan
Close - by Eleven Tales
In a Heartbeat - by Noam Zaguri
Break of Day - by Noam Zaguri
A huge thank you to these guys, who so generously gave of their to time to help with language translations:
Arabic - by Mohammad Alkhudhair
Assamese - by Partha Protim Borah
Catalan - by Pau Zabaleta
Chinese - by Loretta Mao
Croatian - by Davor Bobanac
Dutch - by Karla Greven
English - by Justine du Toit
French - by Amélie Macoin
Georgian - by Qeti Giorgadze
German - by Tanja Pütz
Greek - by Angeliki Papadimitriou
Hungarian - by Zorka Evetovics
Indonesian - by Ary Nuansa
Italian - by Grazia Gironella
Korean - by Chloe Park
Macedonian - by Lidija Pusevska Markovska
Polish - by Anna Konieczna
Russian - by Assiya Marzhanova
Slovak - by Zuzana Beratsova
Slovenian - by Jasmina Kovačič
Thai - by Pimmi Uamart
Ukrainian - by Olha Yurchyk
Vietnamese - by Thi Le
Being around people who are fake and insincere or where you feel out of place is so much worse than loneliness.
30+ years of it. But because of this, I accomplished a lot due to my own personal training, hard work, resilience, intelligence, and inability to allow others to disrespect me for more than a moment.
Besides... what is most important is none of this terrestrial, non-sequitur nonsense. When you're about to cross beyond the void veil--when that moment surely arrives... Reflect carefully.
"Before I start, I must see my end. Destination known, my mind's journey now begins. Upon my chariot, heart and soul's fate revealed. In time, all points converge, hope's strength resteeled. But to earn final peace at the universe's endless refrain, we must see all in nothingness... before we start again." --Diamond Dragons (Armageddon's Ballad)
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Thank you for watching and sharing this thought. Warmest wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
Agree
That's pretty much the whole world
I couldn't agree more with this.
I identify with Johann. I believe we are ultimately alone in life, especially as we contemplate its end. I live on my own through my past choices and decisions. But when I experience something beautiful in Nature and I long to share that joy with someone else, that is when I feel lonely. I just have to say to myself "Be thankful for this moment, for the incredible opportunity to join in the dance of the Cosmos, and be a living thing among the countless others our precious Mother Earth supports". It's enough.
We are glad his message resonated with you Anthony. May there always be a way to appreciate moments of joy where you can "join in the dance of the Cosmos..." , find comfort in your surroundings, in nature. Wishing you well. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
I also live alone in nature. Wanting to share it got me into more than one messy predicament. Now I'm enjoying a thunderstorm in the screen porch. Sending video clips to my sons. The worst loneliness is with someone there. Being at the far end of life, as our artist says, is worth regular contemplation.
You can share those beautiful moments in nature with others through the internet (pictures, film, writings) and move many souls (especially important for those who would not be able to go out in nature for varios reasons (too poor to travel, ill, etc.)
@@JB-pd3ir Of course you are right. Unfortunately you become very insulated in your "bubble" perhaps as a way to cope, so less willing to reach out. But thank you for the thought.
That's lovley what you said🌈
I would much rather go home to an empty house than to someone I wish weren’t there.
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Agree 100%😊
this is why I am not renting out my spare bedroom. Prefer to live a frugal life than have some stranger sharing my space.
Could not agree more
with me you would love to get home everyday cuz I'd be making you coffee and food and all kinds of good stuff!
Enjoying the life alone and not feeling lonely and not needing much is the ultimate wisdom.
Glad his message resonated with you. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
Some of my happiest moments are in my greenhouse alone, no music with a bag of potting, compost and seeds to plant and plants to prune just the sound of the birds and the company of my cat., absolute bliss
Sounds heavenly! Enjoy these precious moments of peaceful solitude. Warm hugs. Justine and Michael. x
That’s exactly how an old woman should be, old, alone, with a bunch of cats.
Sounds delightful, one of my goals for my later yrs
Same here, after a long day work in the garden, looking at the beautiful sunset and sitting on the terrace like in this film.
You,ve got it exactly right Christine….my garden planting seeds,taking cuttings and watching them grow…nowt better lass!
And most of the people sharing their stories have pets with them through thick and thin. Animal are wonderful ❤
Yes, absolutely right. Unconditional love. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
yes, except for for the drawn out period of their old age, decrepitude, suffering and one's own impotence in helping the beloved pet.
The best friend a person could have .
If you have a pet, then you're under the illusion of being alone. Most people cannot tolerate the transcendental awareness of true solitude.
Yes! Animals are the best! I love my dogs and they are my best company. I occasionally meet with friends, but I love my own company more than anything else, and the older I get, the more I enjoy being on my own. I am in my late 60s and never feel lonely! I am still very energetic, independent and very grateful for everything I have had in my life.
Many individuals in these stories have animals surrounding them. Love is abundant with these companions.
We agree, animals make such a difference in our lives. And they always share love. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
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I noticed that too! I have 3 dogs they remind me of unconditional love.
True....I am never lonely with my 4 cats around me. They are magical.
My doggies have given me reason to live, love, and forgive. Dog isn’t God spelled backwards by coincidence. The ultimate partner in life, IMHO❤️
alone IS NOT LONELY..ITS WONDERFUL SPACE TO BE ONESELF
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I have lived alone since 1996. I view the outside world as something I once swam in. Now I am content with my library, music and memories
We are glad you found your happy place, that's the most important thing. As long as you are content where you are. Sending you warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
@Green Renaissance I am aretired NZ Army Veteran with 20 yrs service hence my decision to view the world on my terms.
I love the metaphor of swimming in the world. I embrace my alone-ness because so much of the world was a cesspool in which I was mired. There are crystal streams to be witnessed if you look for them. But I am a terrestrial creature. From the Earth to which I will return. All things outside of my body are not part of me, but the universe which surrounds me. It is like looking up into the starfield of the galaxy. Beauty to behold and befriend, but we will never touch.
The point is: people are different, have their own needs and their individual ways and abilities to fight loneliness and depression. Some feel happier in society living among the ' benefits' of their money. And I'll be arrogant saying that money really helps; unless there is any mental disease involved_ depression, maybe. In the very end money 'buys' companionship. And It is possible to make choices... Being able to choose_ the most important thing.
I can feel every word of him. Being alone -I do everything alone-to be alone in nature with my dog is one of the most beautiful things in my life ❤
I've never been lonelier than when I'm surrounded by people.
Yes, there are many people that feel that way - you are not alone, Sharon. Sending you warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
I hear that!
Johann, a pleasure to listen to you speak on living alone,
I live alone too, although i had a husband and our family once,
my husband got sick and passed away, our boys grew to men, with their own lives, but i am content, i like my own company, life is good to me, but i take care , in every way.
@SharonG-ipII have not heard this old saying for such a long time.
Understood....
When I walk into the woods, no one is about.
Oddest thing, feel very happy, NO loneliness, none...
Most of these people seem to be so calm with their lives. Something we could all learn from.
Lovely thought. We are so glad we can share this calmness with all our viewers. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
Its because they go to a peaceful ,quiet enviroment and reflect. Escaping the chaos of what is pushed down our throats to think one must believe.
They live in SA in the most beautiful environment
When you are in the last stage of life.
Energy is conserved for living
@@kimsherlock8969 I like that Kim 😊
Who is this man with such a quiet wisdom, so beautifully offered?
He certainly read a lot. There are some Buddhist philosophies in there " you are born with nothing and leaving this Earth with nothing."
A wonderfully wise south african for sure...
@@haid9063 You can learn that lesson without reading. There is a song by The Streets in which the chorus says, "I came to this world with nothing, and I'll leave with nothing but love. Everything else is just borrowed."
We are glad that you enjoyed what he shared. His name is Johann Moolman. You find more info and his website link in the write up below the video. Warmest hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
@@haid9063When he said "naked I was born..." he was quoting from the book of Job 1.21.
When he said "Do to others as you would have done to yourself" he is quoting the Gospels (the so-called golden rule) and when he says love is the bottom line he is qoting the great commandment from the gospels and that great hymn to love - 1 Corinthians 13.
His idea of renunciation as we age certainly echoes the Hindu Sanyasi and his love of solitude the eremetic life of the desert fathers.
There are just too many of us all around the world and sometimes...sometimes we all gather here in the comments, like around a fire (the video) and we become a part of this same story, all togheter.
Even if for some brief moments, we share something, all of us.
Best Regards to all from Portugal.
Wow, what a lovely comparison, thank you for sharing this thought with us all. Sending you warm hugs to Portugal, Justine and Michael. 💚
Truly. From Florida.
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Indeed 😘
Indeed, thank you for sharing this 😍
Loneliness is not the absence of people it's the loss of one's self
Deep words, thank you for sharing. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
I live in solitude. I am a painter. I paint everyday and enjoy my animals. I am not lonely.
To be a true artist, it is necessary to be alone so that the magic of creativity can come
mysteriously. It is a great honor to be in that realm, but one has to give up human drama.
Quietude, peace and nature are the ingredients.
So wonderful to read of the life that you have created for yourself. May you continue to use the solitude to craft the magic of your creations. Sending hugs. Justine and Michael. x
There is nothing more relaxing than quiet place
Well said, glad this video resonated with you. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
"solitude is for me a fount of healing which makes my life worth living. Taling is often a torment for me, and I need many days of silence to recover from the futility of words"- Carl Jung
Thank you for sharing the quotation with us. Certainly words one can ponder on. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
I was conceived thru rape. I was never aloud to fit in. It's taken me 61 years to see l am the one that is blessed. I've always had complete compassion for people because l know what it's like to suffer. I now see that l was the lucky one. All those who threw me away have to live with that. I may not have had people but l was surrounded by Angels and always felt loved. I have my lonely times but l have more peaceful moments than most.
🙏💕
Thank you for sharing your story, so much to think about... We are so grateful that you realized after all these years that you are blessed. And that you always felt angels around you, felt loved and looked after. Wishing you all the best, much joy and peace. Sending you warmest of hugs. Justine and Michael. 💚
@@ReflectionsofLife Thank You so very much!!💕
These films have been instrumental in my reshaping my life in more peaceful and joyful ways the last few years. I am more grateful than I could ever say. Thank you to all involved.
We appreciate your kind and encouraging words so much. So wonderful to hear that our videos are so valuable to you. Good to have you with us on our journey. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
Same❤️
There is a ocean of difference between solitude and being lonely .
No one is an island
No one stands alone
Each ones Joy's are joys to me
Each ones needs are my own
We need one another
So I will defend
Each one as my other
Each one as my friend .
Beautiful words, thanks so much for sharing. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
@@ReflectionsofLife we used to sing it at my school.
....provided you mix with the right people
@@brucedownunda7054 The right people . How hard it is to find them. So, I live a almost hermit like life and hope for the best. So, the majority of people discover the right mind.
@@spmoran4703 Not difficult, You simply have to look under the Right Mushrooms. " Don't Stop nelieving" Journey
In recovering from trauma, I recently came to understand what this man said about accepting the reality of loneliness. He has a concise way of speaking about complicated things. Thank you for sharing this.
Wonderful that his words are so meaningful to you. We hope you are doing better, wishing you all the best for the road ahead. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
@@ReflectionsofLife Yes, I am. Thank you for your kindness. ☮️
I live close to hermit life. Totally surprised, unplanned, but sequalae from brain injury and fatigue, headache, vertigo, blah blah.
I was such a "people person" !
I enjoy my own company.
Amen.
I love your films.
Every
Single
One.
Beautiful man and words. The calm in and around him seem to offer a deep place of reflection and insight. In the end it is all about love. ❤
Happy you enjoyed it, Heidi. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
It’s hard if you don’t know love
Yes it’s all about love,love everything and just live in the now ,don’t worry about what happened yesterday or what may happen tomorrow love this very moment and enjoy your life
Life plays no favourites, we are in this journey together! Find your passion.... find your love.... find your soul tribe! All roads lead home but somewhere along the way you need a helping hand! Take time to enjoy the sunrise, the sunset and don't be scared to step out of your comfort zone and learn love! Smell the roses! This wonderful man is very wise and very uplifting! Thank you Green Renaissance for another magical ride into the journey of life!
You are welcome Heleena. Lovely to read all your thoughts, ideas,... We are glad we could share the video with you. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
At 67, I am living by myself. I have the love of my children and grandchildren. I choose to let them live their lives and leave it to them when they want to share their lives with me. I also treat people the way they treat me. I don't go out of my way to push my belief that they should treat me in a certain way when they have their own beliefs. I love solitude ❤.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and views. Nice that you are content living on your own but that you still have family that is part of your life. Sending you warmest of hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
I absolutely love being alone. I'm never bored. I love hiking and biking throughout the west of Ireland 🇮🇪 In October 2022 I did a two week self drive camping safari in Namibia in southern Africa. I've travelled all over the world solo. I never feel alone.
Wonderful to read that you are content being on your own. Your travels sound wonderful. Enjoy every new adventure. Kindest wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
Wow! I could listen to him for hours - the calmness of his voice, wisdom of his words, kindness of his heart. Thank you again, GR.
You are welcome Cate. We are glad you enjoyed listening to him. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
@@ReflectionsofLife Is he an artist?A sculptor?
The scene where he is walking along with the four dogs I pray that is what heaven will look like for me
I hope it does for you ❤
Then I live in Heaven now. I live with my my partner and her seven big dogs and three big cats. It’s Heaven (til it’s time to cleanup the yard! LOL).
Yes❤
@@sstolarik lol
You literally do live in heaven. Heaven is here and Now. Only a thought makes you think you don't ❤@@sstolarik
Such a soulful and kind man. I could've kept on listening for hours! Soothing and so grounded in truth. This world needs more perspectives like his. I had to go through loneliness when the father of my children left 10 years ago. They were 3 and 1. The loneliness was unbarable and hurt like nothing I've ever felt before. I was terrified of it for so long that it became my reality. I've now reached a point where being alone is my sacred space. I cherish it and love it with all my heart. I sometimes wish I could be on an island. But then, he says it's not the answer. I appreciate this message. It's what I needed to hear. Guess I have more to learn on this crazy beautiful journey! ☺️✨
Sorry to read about your sad experiences. But we are so happy this video resonated with you so much. May his words inspire and help you to find the right path through life, times for being alone and to be with people. Sending you many warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
“It’s what you’ve acquired in your soul that is wealth.” This man understands. So few do, and for many, it is too late to change the selfish, superficial, materialistic habits of a lifetime.
We are glad his words resonated with you. Thank you for watching. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
My soul was lost, scared, confused & in darkness my whole life. I decided I needed to do some DEEP SOUL SEARCHING & IMPROVE MYSELF in every way possible. I’m so proud of myself….i started when I was 24 and something in me sky rocketed when 26 and now at 28 my soul is free and I set up my life in a certain way that allows me to have a car, studio apartment, dog, food, everything I really need and some extra for life. Thing is, to everyone around me im a loser…but to me….im my own hero. I beat this thing that kept me trapped in myself. No one understands. I’m incredibly resilient to the opinions of others but at times it takes its toll. I may not have a lot of money but I’m pursuing art to become an artist and develop a clothing brand that speaks to people’s souls and help them like I helped mine. Idk. May be stoopid but my heart says this is it. Just full throttle ahead. Worse comes to worse, we’ll pick up a trade job and have a family later on in life or maybe a realtor but Idc about money. I care about life. I finally got mine back. A lot of trauma as a kid. Idk where I was going with this. I guess I’m just venting. Peace & love from a human in NY, JR
He has enough money. I'm six months away from not having enough money to eat.
Needless to say, no restaurants for me: cook everything I eat.
The Beatles nailed it with Eleanor Rigby, all the lonely people where do they all belong. A beautifully sad song.
Agree a great song sad too I remember it well ❤ spelt Eleanor 😊
What a beautiful reminder of a beautiful song. We'll be listening to that this weekend. Hugs to you. Justine and Michael 💚
@@ReflectionsofLife hugs in return 🤗
As i am watching this i was thinking about the little flame in me that keeps burning, hell or highwater. How he explains our mental awareness, our fragility; "adrift on the ocean, there's land ahead.." i love that. He says he has reached an age, i am 65 yrs & feel sorrow that, right now, i 'm not sharing my life , and years of questioning wisdom that could help a male partner, an ageing man full of life's experience. He gives us a truly wonderful attitude to life, very honest and gentle, which is a quality that draws me to a man. Men can be just as caring, loving, nurturing, joyful, sweet, scared, self-doubting as women.
Thank you, i loved listening to him. Sending love. 👍💕🌈🌱🦋
So wonderful that his words, his thoughts were so meaningful to you Anjou. Thank you also for sharing your thoughts. And keep that flame burning, no matter what. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
"If you take a trick as a solution, you're tricking yourself. You have to solve problems in a real way."
that's spot on
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Hi, I was recommended to you by an artist. I must say that at 75 I have finally found true happiness. I moved next door to my daughter and the grandchildren are popping in and out unannounced. At first I felt some frustration because I have lived alone for the past 30 yrs, but now I miss their comings and goings on weekends when they’re busy with sports and friends. Let me tell you, it’s only now that I realize how terribly lonely I had been prior to my moving here. Pets and children are pure of heart and give unconditional love, in my humble opinion they are our best teachers. That said, I love my mornings when I’m free to be alone with my paintbrushes.
Thank you for your lovely message, for sharing a bit about your life. We are so happy that you found a happy spot now and a balance - having family time but also 'Me' time with your paintbrushes. Wishing you all the best further, much happiness and joy every new day. Warmest wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
@@ReflectionsofLife thank you
So much wisdom from this gentleman. Feel connected to everything he said. Thank you for bringing this beautiful video to us.
We are so happy that we could share this video with you Sabina. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
I’ve been lonely all my life and I’ve started to accept it in past few years. It’s still painful but it is what it is. Loneliness is one thing I don’t wish upon even on my worst enemy. Thank you for this beautiful video ❤
Glad we could share it with you. May you have peace in your heart regarding your situation. Sending you warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
You are not alone we are all right here with U 🥰
You have yourself, a beautifully honest human being. I love you. Ana in Mexico City!❤
Great man, to admire. I live a very solitary life, mostly by choice. It makes me feel calm to hear and see this man, since i crave meeting, being with people like him, but i still havent met them where i live. I am thankfull to know and see, they exist. It takes the loneliness that i feel at times, away.
We are glad you enjoyed watching this video. We hope his story inspires you. And we hope you can meet like-minded people at some stage. Stay positive. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
@@ReflectionsofLife thank you for your kindness ❤️
I'm never lonely when all by myself, even for long periods of time.
I'm never bored if forced to wait in the waiting room and I don't need magazines or my phone!
I just use this time to think and that's so good not to feel guilty about not doing anything, and just thinking, travelling in my mind wherever my mind takes me! 😊
We are glad you feel comfortable and happy when you are by yourself. Nice that you can let your mind travel in these times. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
@@ReflectionsofLifeThank you so much. My apologies for taking so long to reply but I must've missed the notification.
Warm wishes to you both too❤
Solitude and your favorite pipe. It doesn't get any better than that.
Glad you enjoyed this, Michael. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
Even though he speaks of loneliness, the strongest impression I felt while watching was quiet, restful, restorative solitude.
Wonderful that it could be felt by you through the video. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
Exactly how I viewed it. Peaceful solitude knowing that the quietness is restorative to the soul.
Wow, just beautiful and truthful. Thank you for bringing beautiful people out of the crowds to share their "talking from the heart" with us. 🌱🌳⭐
You are welcome Marietjie. We are so thankful all the people allow us to share their stories. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
Very wise words. Listen to the heart and not so much the head. Love and kindness will work wonders for us all.
So glad his words resonated with you Scott. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
.. and I thought I was one of only very few people who spend lots of time alone...Thanks for the video
Time is the only resource. When you're about to cross beyond the void veil... Reflect carefully.
"Before I start, I must see my end. Destination known, my mind's journey now begins. Upon my chariot, heart and soul's fate revealed. In time, all points converge, hope's strength resteeled. But to earn final peace at the universe's endless refrain, we must see all in nothingness... before we start again." --Diamond Dragons (Armageddon's Ballad)
🐲✨🐲✨🐲✨
You are welcome. Glad the video helped you, resonated with you. Sending you warmest of hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
Great message. Being alone is the place to find peace. And peace is vital.
So glad this message resonated with you. Yes, we all need these times and places to recharge. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
Muito inspirador ! Obrigada por nos mostrar seres humanos tão especiais .. from Brasília- Brasil 🇧🇷
Beautifully said❤
You are welcome, thank you for watching, Maria. Sending you warm hugs to Brasilia, Justine and Michael. 💚
حقا الثروة الحقيقية هي ما تكتسبه روحك ❤
Well said Zed Zed. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
namaskaram🙏
I love the solitude. The one that teaches and makes us grow inside. That allows us to leisurely enjoy our surroundings. Whether with family or nature. Where time doesn't matter more than on the clock.❤
Beautifully written. May you enjoy lots of these times Julie. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
I wish all the lonely people could come together and we could hug it out for sure, just once, just for a wee while. Then we could all go back home and know and remember that moment and know we need never feel alone again. :)
Such a calm, gentle and hope bringing message for all of us, thank you. Sending you much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
The unconditional love of our animal companions is the gift to us from the eternal I AM.. this man fully embrace and gift it to his own soul 🧡💚beautiful!
Thank you for these lovely words, we are so glad you enjoyed his story Zelda. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
In most Green Renaissance videos, the protagonist almost always has an artisanal pursuit, the creative outlet, which I believe helps with any solitude. And if that pursuit is income generating, it’s even much better.
Beautiful thought. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
He loves lighting matches.
I noticed as well. There is a pleasantness about the warmth of candle flame and the drift of pipe smoke, but I have always disliked the smell of a match being struck . . . almost as if there is a disconnect. I tried not to allow that to carry over to my response to Johann himself.
😂
Thank you Johann Moolman : words of wisdom 🤎 , Thank you Green renaissance: for spreading the light 💚
You are welcome Leonita. Always a pleasure to share these stories. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
@@ReflectionsofLife 💚💐
I enjoyed listening to his man speak about the important things. If I may share my humble opinion, I think this could have been much more powerful if you had included his personal story (where did he come from, what has his life been like? married? kids? etc) to add the story element that really brings the spark of relationality to the philosophical musings. Perhaps a follow-up video with this man? That would be wonderful!
The power of his words apply to any and all life statuses. So while I agree it may be interesting to know, none of those details matter. Fill in the blanks with anything...🙏
Try reading "The Pursuit of Happiness" by Bertrand Russell.
@jennyjenny3531 - Thanks for the thoughts and suggestion. While we do agree that there is always value in knowing more and understanding more - there is also a beauty in a degree of anonymity about lifes personal details - without knowing too much about his personal story, it allows us to all see a bit of ourselves in him, so regardless of my personal situation and how it may differs to his, the story still carries relevance, without letting the details get in the way. But I do also see your point of view - so to include a little more personal info is something that we'll consider going forward :) Warm hugs and best wishes to you for a happy week ahead. Justine and Michael.
@@SonicFields Oh I guess I did! And, I am!
Thank You So Much !!!!! For reminding and confirming my own personal Journey and Luminous Moments. Moments when Divine Truth is revealed and you now KNOW it is Absolute Truth. "The bottom line is Love"
Even if there may be times you can't touch it, in your lostness . . . You KNOW it is Ever Present! Easing the lonely days and moving forward in Life and Your Soul's Journey
It's a pleasure, glad his words resonated with you. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
You have four of the best things around that you’ll ever need. Dogs and creativity. What more would a man need👍
Touching words, thank you for sharing. Warmest hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
This year , after 3 years of isolation post Covid, I thought I'd be more sociable, "Make the effort". I am happy I did it, I now know that I am more at peace & content being on my own. I have work, pets, hobbies and I adore my walks in nature. I am not missing anything.
Thank you for sharing your experiences. Glad you are content the way life is right now. But you had to step out to find out. Well done. Warmest hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
Alone but not lonely✨🙏💛💚
Yes, big difference. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
These words resonate and spoke directly to me, I have spent the last two years living with my family in NZ and felt desperately lonely even surrounded by family.
My Mother feels lonely with the loss of my father even though she is surrounded closely with family.
When I hear this wisdom imparted, can now, grow from this.
Thank you very much ❤️
You are welcome Rachel. So glad this video could be of help to you. Sorry to hear about all the loneliness you all experience. May it change so that you can feel better. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
Sending love to you from Auckland
Johann is only discussing the difference between being alone and being lonely. This doesn’t mean that he himself is alone. Both he, his life partner Justine & their pets live together. It’s an important topic to discuss & many of us have appreciated both Johann’s & Justine’s time & effort in sharing this enlightening video with us👍🏼😎👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Thanks so much for sharing this here. And yes - to see how many hearts and minds have been touched by this film, giving food for thought to the very big difference between 'being alone' and 'being lonely' - that makes us smile. Sending you warmest of wishes. Justine and Michael x
Yet another moving and stunningly beautiful video - thank you each and all. When we see a video has been uploaded by GR, our hearts soar and we settle in to what we know will add to the quality of our lives and our growth as individuals. Such gifts you capture and share with us.
We were moved by this man’s simple but powerful phrase …. “We each feel loneliness.” And in our acceptance of that reality, there is an ironic beauty of found-togetherness. We are grateful for this reminder. Even in our moments and times of feeling abject loneliness, we can reflect on our shared loneliness and let that be like many warm arms to embrace us.
Thank you so much. Kathleen and Justin, Idaho, USA
Thank you Kathleen and Justin, always lovely and interesting to read your thoughts, how much the videos mean to you. So glad we can share them and read about your excitement when they are released. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
This guy I sense is actually well-heeled enough to have good life choices. He sounds privileged financially - playing at being a hermit with options.
Says all the right things, but from a point of a relaxed cushion of wealth.
We each have our own reality and set of circumstances, and we do the best within that, to live a life that brings us peace and joy. 💚
Thank You for this🌻...everything (everything!) you said has been in my head for so long and when I heard this, tears of relief came forward. Often, society is not prepared to talk about the inevitability of death. I think of it and believe I want to prepare for the event in the same way I prepared for the birth my children. It seems both are connected and sacred. Listening to this helped me realize it is not odd to feel a sense of joy about Death. For now, I am well...more than well after watching this; whenever and until my time comes...I will keep this to watch and enjoy later...and later....and later....until "my boat reaches land".
Beautiful message Francisca, interesting thoughts you mention, thank you for sharing. We are glad his message resonated and helped you so much. And you can refer to it again and again, as you say. All the best on your path through life, enjoy every day. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
I love being alone, it so comfortable and peaceful. And you are in good company, too.
Glad this resonated with you. As long as you are content, that is important. Sending you warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
Yet again, you managed to give me what I needed to hear today and for this I thank you 🦋
It's a pleasure Alise, so glad the video came on the right day. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
I love Green Renaissance, such an amazing gift for all.of us. Thank you to all the people who have shared their knowledge and experiences and thank youbto the producers who have taken the care to share these gifts. Bless you all!
Our pleasure Jennifer, we are glad you enjoy these videos so much. Your message is a great encouragement. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
Happy to see you that you are enjoying your life nothing is lovable more than being alone
Glad his story resonated with you. Warmest wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
Magnificently filmed with a message of such depth. Thank you GR for giving the story space and the silences to process the words. Loneliness is one of the major causes of depression, life does have many thorns but we need to be reminded that it's ok and all things pass. Nothing stays the same.
We appreciate your kind and encouraging words, and sharing your thoughts. Glad you enjoyed the way it was filmed. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
If you're lucky enough to get old you might understand your place in the world. Be it alone or with a partner.
Thank you for the thought. 💚
The answer is LOVE and doing to others as you would have them do unto you. Loneliness within a crowd is the most lonely place to be. Depression is part of it. Life is about realizing situations and walking through it. That he's aware of his aging and material things are not important. Wealth is in the soul and its the heart develops the spirit within the soul. What profound statements! Than you for this film. It and the others forever changed my soul and spirit. Bless you all!
We are touched by your words. Glad you enjoyed this video and also others, that they have a positive impact. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
The essence, the energy of a successful life is learning how to touch. Both physically and mentally, but always gently. Look at your dog and how much they thrive or not, and need your touch. More than food. The under rated life skill.
Thank you for sharing these deep and beautiful thoughts. Warmest hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
Oh, you made my weekend again like so many times before, Justine and Michael! I could watch this stunning video on repeat rejoicing whenever the sleepy dog is shown or the head sculpture that is kissed by the sun. Visual nourishment that is so you!
And it's so important to highlight the difference between solitude and loneliness. The first one is vital to figure out if you are truly your best friend as you should be.
Aloha from Berlin ❤🧡💛💚💙
We are so glad the video had a positive influence again on your weekend. Thank you for mentioning the special little things of this video. Sending you warm hugs to Berlin. Justine and Michael. 💚
@@ReflectionsofLife ❤️
Beautiful man in a beautiful place with all he needs to live fulfilled. Thanks for making videos that touch our souls and hearts.🌹
Our pleasure. We are glad we good share Johann's story with you. Warm wishes, Justine and Michael. 💚
Shared this on my studio blog. I so resonate with this as someone of a similar age who creatively labors in solitude in a small studio. There are gifts that prolonged solitude has given me that could not have been acquired any other way. Thank you for making me feel less alone.
Wow, thank you for this message. We are glad this video was so valuable and helpful to you, living a more solitary life too. Thank you also for sharing our video. Sending you warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
I have been a lone wolf since I was a child. I am not shy, if I end up in a party I can charm my way through everyone, and yet I prefer the company of trees, books, birds, candles and swallows up in the sky. Precisely today I read a quote by Nietzsche (and although I am not as extreme and dismissive of contact as him) and I can perfectly understand what pointed towards. “I hate who steals my solitude without, in exchange, offering me true company”. I perfectly understand this. All my life people have projected upon me that I am either arrogant or think I am superior, I have never believe that, but I am aware who is really present with me, and who only seeks validation. And I, like Nietzsche rather be in solitude than to serve as someone’s validator. I like my life, every now and then I do have some weeks in which I think it would be nice to experience more often true presence with others, but then I realize earth is a developing place and we are all here with our unique journey and learning different lessons. Cheers to all! 🙌
My view of things is very similar to yours.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences. We are glad you are content with your situation, that is most important. Sending you warmest of hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
One thing I know for sure- No matter how much time we spend alone, no matter how introverted we are; we are NEVER ALONE!
I’m spirit not religious- but I can tell you that Spirit/Source/higher-Self/God; whatever you choose to label it-we are never alone. Spirit has always been with me and guiding me.. You just have to take the time to listen.
My husband passed in 2013 -so I’ve been utterly alone for 11 almost 12, years; and bc of this solitude I began to understand hood alone I’m not! I began to have my eyes opened to TRUTH, that I’ve never known before.. I began to truly love and understand myself maybe for the first time in my life…
Being alone is never lonely- that is simply your choice… Love to all…
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We are glad you found contentment in being by yourself, that you never feel lonely. That there is always someone/something with you. May it never change. Sending you warmest of hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
Огромная благодность за этот фильм и за возможность посмотреть его на русском. Очень глубокие мысли 💭. Меня всегда пугает одиночество и кажется, что будто это только ты чувствуешь.. От этого становится ещё более одиноко. Но зато теперь я знаю, что сквозь это чувство проходят все. Спасибо ещё раз! ❤️
You are welcome. We are so happy and thank Assiya Marzhanova for providing the Russian subtitles. So glad his words meant so much to you and helped you. Sending you warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
Maravilha!!! 👍👏👏👏👏👏👏👏❤️🙏🙌🙏 Muito obrigado por compartilhar algo tão profundo e belo!!! De Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.
You are welcome, we are glad we could share his story with you. Sending you warm hugs all the way to Rio de Janeiro, Justine and Michael. 💚
This came at the right time. At 46, i separated from my ex 19 years ago. We have 2 children. I gave the latter my all, just as my parents did for me. Lots of outdoor time, great vacations, top notch private school, which ultimately led to top colleges. I ensured to keep them out of my & their mother's differences, and also enforced the necessity to have respect and honor for their mother & elders in general. They were blessed to know their great grandparents on my side very close. But unfortunately i now realise that their mother had poisined their minds. Now in their late teens there is quite a shift. Father's day mother's day they would not call me or their grandparents....that hurts the latter much😔, as do me as well. Calls / messages are unanswered nor responded to. They would simply say "oh i forgot." Their great grandfather left em a multi-million dollar estate....they simply seem not to care or show interest. I've worked too hard and its time to focus on me and ensure things are good for my parents as they are getting older (thank God they're healthy though). Thank you sir, this vid is the push that i needed.
We are glad this video and Johann's message is valuable. Thank you for sharing a bit about your situation, we hop it helped you. We are sorry to read about the circumstances and what all happened and is happening. We hope you can find a new way, be content somehow. Wishing you all the best and strength for the time ahead. Sending much love and kindness to you. Justine and Michael. 💚
@@ReflectionsofLife indeed.
I felt it necessary to Thank You Kindly for this, on this specific day. I am Blessed today to have come across this space on TH-cam. I am 66+ been alone for the last 10 years. I too am on the final walk, vision, hearing, smelling, tasting and mostly the feeling of Awakening of this vapor and whisper of my being. Comfort in surroundings are not vast...but a blessing. Life is a challenge for each of us in the paths we've chosen. Not where I imagined I might be in my late stroll in life. I am positive, however, it is Exactly where my Creator GOD knew I would rest. In that I find Peace...Faith...Beauty...a Divine Warmth I would say. Good Journey You❤
Thank you for your kind words and sharing your thoughts. We are so glad that you discovered our channel. Nice that you are in a place where these is peace, beauty,... Warmest hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
I wish I could meet this man. I am so lonely, but I have a dog. I can go days without speaking to another human being, I would rather be like this than with someone who makes me unhappy. xxx
We are sorry to hear that you are lonely, Jilly. But so good that you have your dog. Animals are such great companions. We hope you can find peace with your situation somehow, or maybe meet a person with whom you feel comfortable, where you can be yourself. Stay in the light. Sending you warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
To anyone feeling lonely, go to the nature for a walk and let yourself immerse into the surrounding, you'll get out with a smile on your face...
Thank you for sharing this encouraging message with all of is. Wishing you many happy walks. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
I only recently discovered this channel, and of the video that I have watched, this is the one I like best. He goes to the heart of the problem, when he says the trick is to find the right people, people who help, not hinder us. People do not come with a clear and helpful synopsis which can help us to determine who it is beneficial to be around and who should be avoided like the plague. No, we have to spend precious time getting to know someone, and they us, to know if a friendship, or any other relationship, is positive or negative. Throughout my life, I have had many relationships where, at the onset, someone seems charming intelligent, kind, all the desireable traits, only later, to discover what is behind the mask, and it's not pretty. Part of this, for my part, I attribute to not being always the best judge of characters, but at other times, it is because of factors beyond my ability to perceive. That is what has led me to be a quasi hermit; I still go out and interact with people, but only in polite and superfical ways (the employees at my favorite coffee shops, bookstores and art supplie stores). It is very sad that there is truth to the old saying, " Familiarity breeds contempt." I think that sustaining relationships are possible, but rare, because we each and everyone of us is so caught up in our own sorrows, drowning in our private seas, stumbling around in the dark (I apologize for my propensity for florid metaphors), that real connects, of deep and nurting nature, are difficult to establish.
We're glad that you've found our films, and we're loving reading through your replies. Thought provoking - your sharing sparks ideas and questions, prompting us to evaluate our own perceptions through another lens. Please do keep your messages coming. We all have our own reality and set of circumstances that shape our way of seeing and moving through the world - and we work with that as best we can, in a way that suits us best - each in our own unique way - certain no such thing as 'one size fits all'. Warmest of hugs to you. And it's great to have you along on this journey together with us. Justine and Michael x
I’ve just come upon this. As a fellow South African it’s so good to see the wisdom we have as a very unique nation of people ❤
We're so glad that you've found our channel - and we hope that you continue to enjoy many of the 250+ films that we've already shared (mostly from South Africa). And with a new story out every two weeks, there is still much more to come. Sending you warm hugs. Justine and Michael. 💚
Just wow. So powerful. Thank you for this message 🙏🏻🥰🥰
It's a pleasure, we are glad you enjoyed his message. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
I love your videos, they warm my heart. Beautifully done as always, Thank you 🙏
Thank you Debbie, we appreciate your kind words. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
"It's your state of mind which determines loneliness." Just when I needed this reminder, thanks again.
So wonderful that it came at the right time. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
This man is a model human. Nurture your inner being. Be present to the life in front of you. Accept what is. Build meaningful relationships but also cultivate loneliness. All else extremities are meaningless.
So glad his message resonated with you so much. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
"I think loneliness is about a feeling of being lost and you are wanting to find a direction and search for something and you're uncertain of what that something is or should be." - Wow... I had to stop and digest the powerful accuracy of this... Thank you so much for your wonderful videos - we learn so much from them
It's a pleasure, so glad we can share these stories. We are glad his message was meaningful to you. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
All of what this wonderful person says is resonating with me now - and I love those tiny clay figures - good company perhaps ? Thanks for this - yet again x
You are so welcome Lindy. So glad the video was meaningful to you. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
I loved this. This beautiful man's words helped me with my struggles this morning as I face another day.
well, you're not alone here, or there my friend. Let's breathe this day in together :)
Mornings can be indescribably tough. Let's hang on in there as each day brings good things. Friends and nature are blessings that can sustain us if we allow them, and we can sustain one another.
How wonderful that his message was so meaningful and helpful to you today. May it be a good day, wishing you positivity and strength. Much love, Justine and Michael. 💚
These documentaries adorn my life so much. Your work is simply wonderful, just keep going....
Regards from Brazil❤️
It makes us so happy to read your words. Thank you for writing to us. There is definitely more to come, stay tuned. Sending you warm hugs to Brazil, Justine and Michael. 💚
Through childhood trauma, poor decisions as an adult i was alone/lonely for most of my life.
- in my 20's, 30's i looked into a few different 'religions though couldn't really relate to any of them.
i started looking at my hand, praying to whoever made it to reach out to me. God did Through Jesus Christ and the Bible. It hasn't always been easy, and i've still a ways to go though i'm happily married now: we're buying a home at age 57. Again it's not easy though i've found living for myself is "for the birds" i personally believe Christ died that i might live! This life is short though God willing i'm trying to live it in a way that has meaning & purpose...
Thank you for sharing your ups and downs. We are glad that you found contentment and more stability, are also married now and are able to buying a home. Wishing you all the best further, and joy and strength for every new day. Sending you warmest of hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
You are not alone if you have a dog💕🐾
💚
I couldn’t agree more ❤
As a dog lover, I understand what you're getting at, but I think ir's not true.
The exchange of language and ideas with human or co-species is far different from the company a dog offers. If you think a dog offers this, then you're anthropomorphising;, and imagining other meanings thst are not there. No ethologist would agree. Or, your human interactions are impoverished if a dog can so easily replace them
In Western history and art, the dog is depicted usually as guard for security, or to symbolise faithfulness of the sort humans are not capable.
But for me, convincing is the Ancient Greek philosopher Diogenes (around 300BC) who essentially "wrote the book" on living a solitudinous life, yet is always depicted with his trademark dogs. It's an archetype. Similarly, the Christian cave hermits movement around 500 AD did not banish the animals.
I live alone and have done for the past 55years, but I have a dog. Each year in the Spring 2 blackbirds arrive back here to take up their usual Summer residence in the tree by my window, and I greet them with joy and welcome them home. So you would say I'm not living alone. I should get rid of the dog and chase the birds away?
No, because this is-about withdrawing from human society, not banishing the animals from your life. The lonely goatherd is nevertheless 'lonely'.
Beautiful
Thank you. Justine and Michael. 💚
"put it on the shelf, stand back and say I will recognise you tomorrow" that is a powerful concept to something we don't yet see.
So happy these words spoke to you deeply. Sending warmest wishes to you, Justine and Michael. 💚
What most people don't understand of people suffering from loneliness is that suffering is not coming from being alone, but in being with people and not feeling any resonance with them. So when you say to a lonely person he should go out more and try to hang with more people, you are making things worse.
Thank you for sharing these thoughts Dominic, so interesting how you describe loneliness. Thought-provoking. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
In am at 0:10 and I already know this is gonna be a great video.
Lovely. We hope you enjoyed it right to the end. Warm hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
Great share - question still lingers for me from the very early part of the video ….. what blend of pipe tobacco would a man like this sip at while contemplating life’s fascinating intricacies ? My guess .. 🤔 English blend laced with mysterious Oriental / Smokey Latakia ? …or perhaps an sweet aged Red & White Virginia leaf to brighten the mood ? Just like the pipe, life will need to be re-lit / tended too, tipped over to dump the ash…sometimes better enjoyed not at at the pace of a freight train but slowly sipping away to pick out the beautiful & sweet nuances of it all. A man and his pipe (:
Very interesting analogy - smoking a pipe and the living of life. 'tipped to dump the ash' - loved that, and so true - often times we need to let go of that which is no longer serving us. 'slowly sipping away' - how much we miss when we race so quickly, not slowing down to savour the beauty that surrounds us all, every day. Thanks for sharing these views - nicely done. Warm hugs. Justine and Michael. x
@@ReflectionsofLife 🙏🏼
His voice is so soothing it would be wonderful if he could read a story and we could listen😍....
I do wonder though if he has a family? Or someone close to love....he speaks a great truth ..as they say in Greek..much love🎀🎀🎀 from Aegina Greece
Thanks for the message Marianna. We're so glad that you enjoyed his story and that his words soothed your soul. Sending warm wishes. Justine and Michael x
Calm humble beautiful soul.
Thank you for your kind words. Warmest hugs, Justine and Michael. 💚
Thank goodness we two no longer have to attend events, just enjoying our own space. Lovely peace at last.
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