Once many years ago I was hit by loneliness. I can only assume that what I experienced was similar to a person with severe claustrophobia being stuck in a small black closet. I had my only panic attack.
Why never again? Quite simply I reasoned why it had occurred. It was due to my prioritising long term goal over the short term self imposed condition of isolation preventing me from satisfying my need for others to converse and have intercourse with. At the time I had been studying for final exams for professional qualification.
I also later on found out that people who have ambition that they are in the course of fulfilling do not have time to experience loneliness. It also strangely seems to affect women more than men.

Your story was delightful. Here's what I was thinking as I read it.

Here's a healthy woman who can use her two strong legs for a 3 mile power walk - by a river (lucky). She has a TV and can watch a movie of her choice, make steak and mushrooms (mmm.. a delicious combo not to mention a classic). She has the luxury of time to take a nap and the optimism to see beauty in rain and the beautiful smells it brings, over a cup of coffee (another great smell She has a pair of jeans she feels great in and a car to take her shopping, then a home to drive home to.
I've had that same thought, when in solitude, that I hadn't spoken a word all day (many times). I had a moment, just like you... and then gratitude. What we had was an experience; one that sounds like a dream to many who can't find a moment alone without some demand. Words are often wasted and, at times, highly overrated. They may have even distracted you from the appreciation you had for the rain and the earthy sounds and smells it delivered.

There are times I'm so busy that I crave those days. And there are moments I feel captive, having a conversation that makes me wish for an immediate ban on all speaking.

Thanks for sharing the events of that day. I may plan one just like it this weekend, minus the river and replaced by a lake.

I am usually quite content being alone. Right up until my visit with my son ends. On the drive home (250 miles) I always get a little nostalgic and melancholy. Then I arrive home happy to have my own bed and TV. Simple pleasure I know but that's all it takes.

Sounds like you had a wonderful day! Good for you!

You write beautifully my comrade. ...my loneliness is the loss of local hope I can love collaborate co-create with a vivacious bride like you. ...narrow our distance to our ears and speak to me ....I learn from deep listening and I hope you will teach me the other half of Bryan Adams song....pillow talk no need to wash sheets or fold comforters 843 926 1750 800 miles driving so far alone with my 2 Service Cats Kiti&Laila...Larry Carter Center pops up from my caller ID my name not a building

I go days without speaking to anyone. Sometimes I just want to share a beautiful moment with someone - rather than enjoy it alone. I remember sharing beautiful moments with special people and it's hard to get used to not having that option.

I had a close friend with whom I'd share photos or videos of special things throughout the day - as a way to share the experience a bit when we were apart. But since breaking off that relationship, it was quite an adjustment to just enjoy a scene myself without that need to share it with my close friend. That period of adjustment is over and I'm happy to enjoy these special moments alone.

When I'm with others, I don't always really see the intensity, like I do all by myself. I get distracted.

The pendulum swings from too many people around - to not enough - and once in a while we get that just right moment. Have patience and that 'just right moment' will come again. So enjoy the solitude while you have it... You might wish you had it back someday.

Thank you for sharing. Sounds like it was a beautiful day. ☺

So what was the movie? I get it, since the evacuations began, I'm the only one on my block that stayed. I go a day or two without seeing or talking to another human. I can handle being alone, but being lonely is another story. Reach out when you feel that way, you'll find your not alone in being lonely.

I have those days. Lately they have been coming more often. Hopefully it is a phase. Maybe it is the heat. ☺