People underestimate the value in being alone. The idea that humans are inherently social creatures has led many of the lesser minded of our species to believe they have to be surrounded by others for every waking hour of the day. As such, the gentle peace of solitude is a delight unsought and unappreciated by the unintelligent masses.

I, however, value being alone above anything else in this world.

There is no place I would rather be than one devoid of other people. No company I like to keep more than my own. No voice I wish to hear but that of my inner monologue.

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I am only truly at peace when I am by my lonesome.

So when I’m the only person in lab sessions with no partner, or sat as the only person on a 5-man table at lunch, it’s not because I can’t make friends. It’s because I don’t need to.

I am not lonely. I am alone. It’s an important distinction.

“Human beings need each other.” What utter folly. A man may wake up alone, spend his day alone, and go to bed alone, without the slightest detriment to his health. I stand here as testament to that.

I do not need a lab partner.

I do not need a study partner.

And I certainly do not need friends.

Which is why, the moment that clubroom door opened, I readied myself to protect my safe haven.