Natural and Serene 自然而宁静

It is wonderful to be in the nature. However, it can be lonely after some time if no other human is around. Indeed, human beings are to be in the community. Even in the creation narrative, Adam, the first man, was created and being placed in the paradise. But the Creator said, “It is not good for the man to be alone; I will make him a helper suitable for him.”

Then, is there benefit to be alone from time to time? Indeed, there is the benefit for personal reflection. Unconsciously, we have taken into our life toxic information in the affluent and competitive society. Over time, we become toxic and spread negative influence.

When we choose to be in solitude at a natural and serene place, it gives us opportunity for self-searching. If we come from a faith background such as the believers in God, we can use the time to draw near to God. Indeed, He is all present, and our communication with Him is not confined to any particular place and time.

However, it is good to be at the natural and serene place, but it is never meant to make a person individualistic nor self-centred. Instead, in a time of solitude, we learn how to relate to others. When we get back to the community, we can become a blessing to others.

一个人处在大自然中是美妙的事情；然而，如果没有其他人在身边，可能一段时间后便会感觉寂寞。的确，人是属于群体。若根据圣经记载，亚当是第一个被造的人，他也被创造主安置于伊甸园。但创造主说：“那人独居不好，我要为他造一个配偶帮助他。”

那么，不时独处有什么好处呢？实际上，独处进行个人反思是有益的。人在富裕和竞争激烈的社会会不知不觉吸收了不良的资讯和影响；随着时间，我们也会散播负面的影响。

当我们选择在一个自然而宁静的地方独处时，我们可以自我探索。如果我们有信仰背景，例如是上帝的信徒，我们就可以利用独处时间接近祂；的确祂是無所不在，我们与祂的交流并不局限于任何的地点和时间。

能够处于自然和宁静的地方必竟是件好事，但这绝不意味着要深化个人性，亦更不能以自我为中心。相反的，在独处的时候，我们思想如何与他人交往及一起生活；当我们回到群体时，我们可以成为别人的祝福。

The rock river beside the Village Mesilau is conducive for solitude and personal reflection.
马西劳度假村的石头河很适合作为独处反思的一个所在。