Solar Power Update | Dealing with Loneliness

#solar #offgrid #logcabin
Following up on the first video of me installing solar power at the cabin, I give an update on how the Goal Zero Yeti power station and solar panels are doing to cover my electricity requirements here at the off grid log cabin.
At the end of the video, I talk about the difference between being alone and loneliness.
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[@STAMPER-DESIGN]

Never posted before but I wanted to thank you for making these videos and doing what you do here. Living in a city with millions I watch your videos as a source of knowledge, inspiration and solace. What keeps me coming back is that you're a real person who speaks from a good heart. On a medium that is filled with performances, what you do here is a breath of fresh air. Thanks again!

[@howardfortyfive9676]

I keep coming back for the *Wonderful Toasted Cheese Sandwiches.* In fact you've gotten me into a warm cheese sandwich mood as I type this. Great video as always Shawn.. You should checkout the *Solar Tracker* I heard about 30yr ago. Have you considered Wind power?

[@TheFlatlander440]

I live alone with no family to speak of. My parents have been deceased for many years and I have no siblings or relatives. I live alone on my modest 20 acres with my two cats but thoroughly enjoy the outdoors whether it's hiking canoeing, fishing and photography I'm satisfied. I've been retired now for almost 7 years and enjoy not being a social butterfly. It's the way I feel and living in solitude is enlightening as it make me more appreciative of things I have accomplished with no outside help or family. Thanks for sharing your time Shawn. Cheers!

[@Turbo44mag]

I have always wanted to live off the grid alone, away from hatrid and liberal bias.

[@zohaf]

good for you, sir. I think the internet helps a heap even if its not considered a healthy replacement but i think it allows us to go on much longer before we get blue.

[@wheelmanjosh1982]

At least you do have Internet evidently, and interact somewhat with society through social media.

[@henrygrand695]

Make sure you have someone checking up on you every week, so that your cats won't have to eat you when the time comes.

[@laureldell7377]

I've found that most people have a hidden agenda, they want something from you. I've had people come to work on my house and they'd automatically assume that they could just move in on me. Being a female living alone seems to attract very odd people. I love living alone and wouldn't have it any other way at this point.

[@bonniebarbee5401]

Thank you for saying there is a difference between being alone and loneliness! I love being alone but I’m not lonely!

[@131dyana]

After my Husband passed on, I lived alone. I loved it. I was never lonely. I could do what I wanted, I could sew all day, or paint landscapes all day. I really loved it. Now my extended family moved in. I had to get used to the noise and people being here all the time again. I do miss being alone.

[@ronklimp7197]

Your situation is very unique in that you are both alone, and at the same time surrounded by a virtual crowd of witnesses. I suspect that it sometimes feels like a privilege to share your rich experiences with so many and sometimes like a burden to have to keep "feeding the beast" to keep your channel active and moving forward. Very few of us would be successful at this balancing act, but you do it well (and quite naturally). Thanks for letting us be a part of your journey!

[@IAM-ganesha]

Well said Ron!

[@12maoutdoors70]

Yeah... You've made a very, very good observation, Ron!

[@ImranSahir1]

Couldn't have said better. That's exactly what I feel about it. Thank you, sir.

[@SuperKingslaw]

Well said!

[@karenmahovlic2624]

@@IAM-ganesha l

[@jecracing4511]

Learning to be your own best friend and enjoying your own company is one of the best things anyone can learn. Great insight.

[@candiskiriajes1385]

We've been living next to the National forest in Nor. California for almost 40 years. Richard Proenneke is one of our heroes. He did not disconnect from people, but remained in touch with his audience through his writings and his travels. In the winter months he would stay with friends and family and help them at their homes. Each day, in his journals, he would tell what he had seen and done - kind of like his "social media" . I teach about herbal medicine and gardening, my husband makes instruments, violins mandolins etc. and many times he has used local wood to do so. It is wonderful to see what you are doing. We have a similar solar set up for our trailer and they work great. It is an amazing way to live life that gives an authentic, fulfilling sense of being engaged with the deep and abiding ways of Nature. God bless you and your family and your efforts.

[@That1Chick]

I love spending my time alone, and I never feel lonely, or bored. Most people don’t understand that. I work in a very socially interactive job, just two days per week, (by choice), and I feel like I literally need those five days off, to recharge lol. All I need is my two cats, and myself, (ok- maybe a close friend, once in a while), and I am happy. I would be in heaven in a place like you have!! I really enjoyed this video, thank you!

[@bebom927]

may be your job satisfies your loneliness to some degree, in which case you are lucky,, but you still need the deeper satisfaction as he eludes to

[@bjstark5069]

I think I could too. I believe it depends on the person, some can, some can't.

[@yentlc.wiersma6108]

Loneliness is dangerous. It’s addicting. Once you see how peaceful it is, you don’t want to deal with people.

[@David-rx2to]

Spirit Bear Adventures, Agree. When I was in college, I lived off campus with an older friend that had graduated and was working. He traveled for his job and was away for weeks at a time. I enjoyed the solitude and even though he was a good friend, I was always a little annoyed when he returned from a trip.

[@Andrei-kg6dr]

True.

[@hanorabrennan8846]

We're just stronger than others but we pay the price in loneliness. Fleeting as these moments are, it's the price I gladly pay. My most interesting friends live abroad anyway.

[@12maoutdoors70]

I relate deeply to this observation! I am a full time sales representative (13 years running), and missed out on many of the earlier years of my twenties to explore and find myself due to partying and chasing money. I ended up having a significant shift in mindset somewhere in the last few years of my twenties, and have regained my true believe systems as well as found peace in solitude. It's not to say I don't appreciate sound relationships and interaction, though; rather, it's a sort of balance I was void of for years. Spirit Bear Adventures, what's the thing that out you on an adventurous track?

[@angiekrajewski6419]

Spirit Bear Adventures i believe that peace can be experienced within self also...even in a mob...but this depends on each one...how you live with yourself...how you protect yourself against those negative vibs...true that once in a while we still need to get away from all this...

[@lalleprutt868]

Sometimes it's nice to drop all people and stay alone for a while. The longest time I was completely alone and did not see another person was during a 35-day walk in the wilderness of Northern Europe. It was the best 35 days of my life.

[@AlexMediass]

That’s so important to know the difference between being on your own and being lonely! And you made it so clear! I always love watching your videos! Literally if I’ve had a bad day I watch these! And you really do give the best advice, not only outdoorsy advice but life advice! Anyone can give advice, but I always listen and really take in what you say! So thanks again!

[@MySelfReliance]

Thanks Alex

[@johno6861]

I saw an ad for a door mat that just about summed up my feelings, it said, you reading reading this is all the socialization I need today.

[@christschool]

I don't think being alone means not being around other people. I've never felt lonelier than when I'm in a crowd of people at a social gathering.

[@MySelfReliance]

I agree

[@vliegendehollander55]

I had the same feeling many times. First I was thinking it was me, I must be a weird guy for them, but I was also thinking, wait, all thinks has two sides at least. I was getting that lonely feeling because the subjects they were talking about were not at all interesting for me. And when I try to change the subject a bit the majority is starting to ignore you more and more. Then you get in a sort descending spiral. So I start to concentrate more and more on my work, but that's not the right way also, at least not for me. Till I was getting a assistant by me who had the same thinking direction as me. He was an old USSR emigrant and his job was been a wilderness surveyor in Siberia so to speak. Measuring the land, to find out what the best way was for a new road or pipe line. He knew the wilderness very well and it was great to here and discus with him about Then the lonely feeling was slowly gone and more and more we both were looking for people with the same line of thinking.

[@shootermcmillan]

I hate people but I love gatherings.......solitude is a useful tool for the emotionally healthy, but we weren't designed to exist totally isolated. I think most people that have the idea that they want to do what Sean is doing, well they really just want off of the hamster wheel that modern life has become.

[@MrBirgerB]

i think most people in this forum are simply just natural introverts. this type of personality just does not thrive at large social gatherings, and likes solitude. nothing strange there. its all about brain chemistry.

[@dennismckeown5863]

Yes it can be lonely and out of place among strangers.

[@trudyschaffer8016]

Thank you for introducing this subject to your channel in such a positive way. Distinguishing the difference between being lonely and being alone is crucial in understanding what ones needs are. To see you have some days that are slow to take shape is enlightening and encouraging for your subscribers. You are about as real as they come...🌲

[@artistaloca4]

Well said. ❤️

[@panicfarm9874]

Mate I was a carpenter here in Australia was doing a lot of high rise jobs, just wanna say with all the stuff you do out there, please take care of your back when you lift, I have two rods and eight screws in my back from not taking care. I love your channel and would’ve loved to do what you’re doing but can’t now. Look after yourself and keep up the great content. Cheers Cosmo Rea - Australia

[@benjisgal54]

Totally agree.

[@cynrok]

As someone with back problems I cringe every time he lifts something so I definitely agree!

[@happypheetphotographyBYWILEY]

Hello Shawn - Thank you for what you do for all of us. You bring us a way of life that helps us to see what is good in nature, in hard productive work, in the joy of solitude, in working toward personal self improvement and yes, in Self Reliance. Of course, I hope you do know, you are not truly alone out there at the cabin, you have 581,000 friends there with you. Thanks for letting us hang out at The Cabin with you.

[@LarryTaint-qn8pd]

I love my alone time, but I crave human interaction after 3 or 4 days. I've camped out alone a couple weeks at a time and by the time I get back home I'm a real chatterbox for a couple hours. Cali sure loves you. You can see it quite obviously. Thanks for your videos Shawn, it allows me to live vicariously through you.

[@TommyJay2006]

You crave human interaction? I find something seriously disturbing about that. Have you met other humans?

[@sdvma]

He needs the validation

[@worldofenigma1]

Wanting connection isn't necessarily about validation.

[@miguelalves7333]

I always have been very social but at this point of my life i prefer to being alone so i dont have to deal with bullshit. Altough there is good people still its hard to find . And being alone for me is one way of avoid all the drama , backstabing , being used and robbed by the so called "friends" and family . I enjoy my own company and i wish i could live like this . Hats off to this Man . Lovely dog by the way.

[@siphondhlovu1153]

Goncalo Martins seems u met not so good friends.

[@Turbo44mag]

I know exactly what you're saying I would rather be 1,000 miles from anyone.

[@miguelalves7333]

@@siphondhlovu1153 had some good friends along the way but had awfull ones too. what i ment was that i can not be bothered anymore at this point of my life so i rather avoid the BS that could bring.

[@Leo-ws6cp]

Goncalo Martins - but going through stuff like that makes you appreciate the escapism more I guess

[@CaptainKarma1972]

It’s one thing to have toxic friends ..... but a toxic family ! Geez ! I tell my youngin this .... out of every 10 people you come across ..... 9 of them will be bad ... and that one that appears to be good ... will eventually show his/ her true colours ....

[@thomlar77]

I was lonely, until i found your channel :-) Your videoes are really helping me :-) I actually felt you were talking to me in that video. THANK YOU Shawn!

[@NothingMaster]

Loneliness is a state of mind. Coming closer to nature in a setting of peaceful solitude, on the other hand, is a treasure. Beside, how could one ever feel lonely when there is so much work to be done in the company of a precious and fun-loving being like Cali!

[@virginiaconway374]

It is easy to talk but it is another to experience.

[@RedWolf17]

Great way to start my morning! Shawn and Cali!! Woohoo!!💗

[@maraudermitchelli]

Omg you’re a good mentor to young I’m so impressed may God bless you and your family for sharing your life with so many!

[@tyrion3575]

Again Thank you Shawn.. Im a 62 year old fella and live in an urban environment, its tricky fella. Your Vids give hope.

[@speedstick77]

You are living the life of my dreams. Watching you is like being there. Thank you for sharing.

[@richardmiller3922]

Great video Shawn. You've done it again; there was I feeling low and dejected, I watch your video and feel a lot more centered and calmer. Thank you.

[@likearockcm]

As long as you are comfortable with yourself ,you are never alone.

[@Jimwill01]

Thanks for the views!! My wife passed away in 02 and I have lived by myself since. I'm in a rural area where the nearest neighbors cannot be seen from my house, and I've only met them a few times. I've always had dogs for companions and without them I think I would really be lonely! Another thing is that i joined a local ham club. I almost never make the face to face meetings, but usually make the weekly on air meetings. I run my ham gear on solar power so even if the electricity goes off (which it does frequently) I still can talk to other hams. I use propane for cooking and light heating. In really cold weather I build up the fire in the wood burning stove and have used it when I ran out of propane a couple of times. No hardship, I enjoyed it!

[@fordfan3179]

That's exactly the mindset I have traveling by motorcycle. My wife plans things in the most finite detail imaginable. Me? "I'm going this way for a few hrs, then I'm going that way for a few hrs." I absolutely love "let's see what's over that mountain" drives my wife nuts but I've taken her to see some of the most incredible places in this country totally unplanned! You also meet the most amazing people who have the most amazing stories. I have no problem going off by myself if I can't find anyone to ride with. I rode 2000 miles through Canada by myself just to see the place.

[@GOTTshua]

It is good to be a motorcyclist. We don't mind wandering and seeing where a road goes. No need to be anywhere. Just a full tank of gas.

[@RedRoadgifts]

Great videos been watching them for a while. Moving from my RV into a cabin this spring living off the grid. I am a 62 year old retired woman and my handicapped daughter..

[@lilianflower3017]

The Red Road Warriors 👍Now it’s your time to live the dream

[@RedRoadgifts]

Thank you so much.. I have bought my solar and a wood burning stove so far. I plan on growing a lot of plants that are used for medicine. I had to take a medical retirement, but being American I learn a lot also from my grandmother. I just need to be away from the rat race. I love nature.

[@rhondacross4075]

The Red Road Warriors I am 63 and have been planning to go off grid on a homestead. I have heard so much negativity from friends and family that I was just about ready to let go of my dream. After reading your reply, I'm now more determined than ever to go for it. Thank you so much!

[@barbibutton9619]

May God bless you and your daughter with all you need. Be safe.

[@hamsterSNAKE]

Woot! New video!!! I guess im not going to bed till i watch this :) have a great day everyone

[@Jackle61]

If you are comfortable in your own skin and are your own best friend, you should have no problem being "alone". I love my alone time with myself whether it's hours, days, or weeks. I crack myself up on a regular basis.

[@rodpasichnyk9140]

"That's why I don't feel lonely, when I'm alone"! Awesome quote!

[@CowInAKeyhole]

I appreciate that you're so genuine and nuanced about these subjects. I'm sure I'm not the only viewer who dreams of living the way you do. I tend to daydream about isolating myself completely from society, but I've come to the conclusion that a lifestyle like that wouldn't be good for me. The longer I spend isolating myself, the worse my social anxiety becomes. I hope with time, I'll be better at coping with my ruminations so I can be more at peace when alone with my thoughts, but I won't try to fix all my problems with an enormous lifestyle change.

[@ronaldrochon9527]

CowInAKeyhole zy

[@DStrayCat69]

There is something called "Bushed". It's a term often used in the Yukon, when someone has been isolated for so long that their mind gets twisted. A fellow I worked with, moved down to the town of Forty Mile and started the "Forty Mile Historical Society". He took up residence in one of the Miners' Cabins and was weeks on end with no contact. Back then (1972) there were no Cellular Phones and the only contact he had, happened when he came to our work site... Month by month, everyone could see that he was loosing his mind... His conversation became quite disjointed and at times he was difficult to understand. His mind would wander and one couldn't tell if he was on the verge of Crying or Laughing... Later I learned there is something called Sensory Deprivation and many people carry what is termed "Touch Hunger". All mammals, humans included, need touch and contact... It's all part of nurturing... My friend was suffering from it acutely... Be on guard to protect your health... Great video and a wonderful talk :-)

[@howbigisyourlove]

that's not why his mind wandered.. he likely had deficiencies in his eating habits and his mind suffered from lack of nutrition.. ... there are plenty and I mean plenty of people who have lived in the woods and they ate properly and were fine..

[@DStrayCat69]

Yes, that may be a good reason... I'm on a Ketogenic Diet and Intermittent Fasting... However, I get my nutrients, electrolytes, etc. Thinking back, he may have been deficient in several areas, I only know that his interactions with other humans was minimal... Personally, I think it was the most major contributing factor, considering I had met several others with the same condition... Being "Bushed", in the Yukon is not an uncommon trait... :-) Thanks for your feedback :-)

[@metroplexchl]

Whatever happened to the old guy? Obviously he's passed now, but was he able to reach help or find a different way of life? Or did he just kind of disappear one season?

[@DStrayCat69]

@@metroplexchl I have no idea... I left the mine and the Yukon for greener pastures in 1974. I lost track of everyone when I moved back to Edmonton. I haven't been back to the Yukon since... but I sure miss the country. I've got some great memories. I was 23 when I left and hitch-hiked down the Alaska Highway at -55F... Was quite the trip.

[@chrisw5742]

He probably got bit by a tick with Lyme :-P Or ate meat from a rabid animal.

[@sharonsue441]

I have always enjoyed dancing to my own rhythm, when and where I choose.......Solitude,,,one of my favorite words💕

[@sandraharris9561]

I agree. I am home as I have a disability so I don’t go out a lot. I have to drag oxygen. Winter especially is hard to handle. My kids are busy doing there own thing. I crochet now it helps. Read a lot. I love history.i have enjoyed your program on UT. Learning and updating is great. But having no one to talk to is and can be a problem. Thanks for your program.

[@johnwcyne8847]

Yet another great video. Now I know my Monday will go well when it starts with Shawn. Have you ever thought about doing a prize where one of us followers gets to come up for a few days and hang out with you and Robinet? Plus meet Cali

[@iamlight1]

Wow, that cabin is turning out so pretty!

[@herwoofnessbostonterrier3420]

Your words today hit a spot that had previously occurred to me while I was watching another video of yours, I said the same about the tree falling in the woods, if no one is there does it still make a noise. You were alone then, funny and poignant at the same time. Some of the things you said made me realize that the day I knew that I loved my dog more than I cared for my husband it was time to call it quits. It took about three more years to work it out in my own mind but I divorced him and never looked back. The 15 yrs. I spent with that dog were among the happiest of my life. I have never been without a dog since loosing her. We had a great time together. I felt that giving the marriage 32 years was really more than I really should have given in retrospect. Hindsight is 20/20 vision. No other relationships of long standing, I do better alone with a dog and a book 📚 or two. But age has been good to me, thankfully. Remember the older you get the faster time goes by and the aging process accelerates. Prayerfully, you have many more years to plug away on the cabin and it’s accompanied build outs. Best wishes to you and yours. Jane and her wacky sidekick Lola, the Boston Terrier

[@deetngator1624]

I got tickled when you got Cali off the chair , you dusted her off not the chair. So cool. Thanks for the video,as always been a learning experience.

[@Jimwill01]

I got my dogs trained. I just walk up to the chair and ask "can I sit there?" and they hop down! Of course I always pet them and thank them!

[@running-wolfgreen3534]

Shawn is the reincarnation of Ralph Waldo Emerson. Without a doubt.

[@mr99boxer30]

@Running Wolf Green I agree with you ! Emerson's book "Self Reliance" and Thoreau's "Walden Pond" all over again. Shawn should write a book too ! Running Wolf appears to be an Indian name? You probably know all about primitive forest living ! We need your outdoor blog on fishing and hunting too ! Peace.

[@shawnwithem9221]

Long time fan, first time post. Thanks for talking openly about these things!

[@patriotkennethburlingham7059]

I started thru-hiking 2 years ago after I retired from the military. It's my therapy, after serving in 3 wars. I need that time alone. Awesome video!

[@bensosnowski1128]

I was alone 90% of the time on my attempted thru hike. Most of the people I met were good people, but I always enjoyed hiking alone the best

[@andyandcallie]

I'm alone quite a bit, whenever I can manage it. I've never been lonely in my life!

[@jaxrcexplorer]

Great commentary! Reminds of a quote "Happiness is only real when shared" Christopher McCandless - Into the Wild

[@3rubberboats]

Soooooo! When do we get a banjo tune? Finding the just right spot for the solar panel can be a bit tricky, but thinking you will. Must be warm enough in the cabin without a fire. Or is there a fire in the stove? You know Shawn, even though your are not around people you are not ever completely alone. There are birds and other wildlife around. And yes, we need humans interaction to know and to gain knowledge from. Finding what you desire in life can be achieved from being alone. But we need the interaction with other people to gain the fullness of life. Great informative video. Have a super grand day. And a tree falling does make sound. But does anyone hear it?

[@johndifrancisco3642]

I remember a few years ago, it might have been when you started building a cabin (possibly that one), and you did not speak in your videos. I did not subscribe because I thought you were "snotty". I am glad you spoke in this one. I often thought, still do sometimes, that I would love to live alone in the woods. This video and the comments that follow gave me a whole different perspective on it. I subbed and will backtrack. Thank you.

[@MySelfReliance]

Thanks John

[@terryducote]

My music gets me through loneliness. I write a lot of music. I was a professional musician at one time. And back then I had a lot of loneliness. I was playing in front of thousands of people, but when you get off stage you feel really lonely. It is hard to explain. I could communicate with the music. I would play a certain chord and it would speak to me. A riff would have me talking and trying to figure out where it could go. It was a back and forth conversation between me and the song. Music is a wonderful tool to fight depression or loneliness.

[@thb77955]

Hello Shawn! Thaaanx for your video! Explaining loneliness is like the beautiful sounds of silence... 🥩🔥🤠⛰️🍻🇨🇦🇩🇪

[@TrystaneTheBlack]

Haven't seen one of your videos in awhile, so crazy to see how far you've come. Evidence if any that if you just put your head down and do the work it all pays off.

[@MrBubbagump58]

That's it! Loneliness is the one emotion, I've never felt. I've always had people in my life, and, I've certainly made an effort to reach out to people, sometime to my harm, but, companionship is just something I can live with, and without.

[@flyinshallot]

Always,always comforts my heart to visit here....how beautiful a life.Not for all,I'm accused of"anti social" a lot...no,just love solitude,wilderness.Lonely in a crowd or with people who claim to care,now that,is lonely...

[@Downeastwaves]

Thanks for the info. You're doing a marvelous job of living.

[@olisykes27]

Shawn you are unique!

[@rj2boo87]

I’ve never liked the outdoors. I was brought up that it was not “lady like”. You have brought such interest and respect to the beautiful outdoors. Thank you.

[@lockedin60]

What you are describing is something that I experienced in the late 1980's. Now I was not in a wilderness environment but moving from a large urban city to a more rural setting. I was working for Radio Shack at the time. I moved from Raleigh NC to Rocky Mount NC. Raleigh (Wake County had a population of close to a million people whereas Rocky Mount (Nash-Edgecombe Counties ) was maybe 150 K. I remembered that it took me about a month to slow down my pace and to understand that people took a more leisurely time to go places and make up their minds. People in Wake County always seemed to be moving at breakneck speed and would never have that much patience. I actually learned to love this more rural way of life. I understand what you are talking about.

[@charliethomas59]

Hey Shawn l love hearing about what you said about loneliness. Yes it is a choice for most but being handycap I don't have that choice to be lonely or not it was chosen for me. I so much enjoy watching your vidos. You do things I loved to do, like camping, carpentry, ect, that I no longer can do.

[@marthaadams8326]

Charlie, me too!

[@robr3015]

Speaking of management, do you have plans for planting trees/shrubs/etc around your property to increase wood and food production/harvesting? Also that Cali, always stealing your seat! It seems she wants a nice orange chair too! We're right there next to you Shawn... although I may be with Cali next to the fire... =D

[@jamesbockenstette4332]

Rob R Cali is a delight. She owns him, Shawn. It is only a matter of time before she owns the chair. With Cali there, Shawn has a connection.

[@adenalicanizares345]

when one finds tranquility and peace in solitude there is no turning back, the only thing that fills you is the smell and sound of nature. Thank you for sharing part of your life in the forest, I am already following your example

[@karenrouth2056]

Thank you Shawn... you have no idea how much you help in so many ways... big hugs to you and your family from south east Italy ...Buona Pasqua...Happy Easter!

[@timkirkpatrick9155]

My grandfather had a saying about running line on the ranch. When you are lonely you talk to the animals. If they start talking back, it is time to go to town! If it doesn't occur to you that they are talking back until some time has passed, go to town and stay a good long while.

[@MySelfReliance]

Lol good point

[@Tehillim5784]

Shawn: I am 65 years old and retired. By no means do I live in the wilderness such as you. I live on an acre and a half of land in a rural area of Tn. However I think that loneliness could and does haunt a person no matter where they live. In my life I find the best remedy to ward-off loneliness is to keep stated goals to perform on a regular basis. I am fortunate to still be able to do physical work with my hands, back, legs, etc. So I bought this 35 year old 2,500 sq.ft. home and property knowing it needed a ton of refurbishing and restoring. After being here for 9 years I still find ways to improve the appearance & functionality of the home and property. And like you I find ways to utilize good materials (salvage, flee-markets, freebies) without depending very much on the big-box stores as my supplier. And rarely do I need any outside help to accomplish the tasks at hand. The benefit is not only increasing the property's value, but the better benefit is when one applies their mind and body to accomplish a stated goal and that determined self-application leaves little room for loneliness to creep-in.

[@robinr.770]

I love my alone time. I love time with people face to face, (despite being a relatively shy and quiet individual) not a big fan of being a line of text on some social media platforms. I thank you for the time and effort you pour into these videos. They give me hope and a sense of clarity that can in other places be so easily lost.

[@sodapopcurtis6481]

You are gift to mankind. May I thank your parents for raising you, and your family for allowing you to do this. Your wisdom will be part of the legacy you leave, and these videos will live on for generations to come.

[@frediacreech3000]

Hey Shawn......do you know what looks lonely........that banjo hanging on the wall.So take that plucker down and show us what you know.My guy knew he saw a banjo case on one of your videos.....

[@TheMetalAllfather]

I believe it was Plato or Socrates who once said "Beware the man who revels in his solitude; for he is either a wild beast, or a god." Solitude is important to me. I'm a part of numerous clubs and groups, but I still prefer to have my time to myself when I can, and not for the sake of being anti-social in any matter, but *selectively* social. Pulling away from people, and from society, allows me to be more careful with my associations. I feel like being in the forest, living in a cabin by myself, would lead me deeper into an already growing dislike of most people in general. And that's a dangerous thing.

[@sophiamac9100]

Absolutely right on many levels. The ancient Greek philosophers said it all and you managed to encapsulate this adage perfectly on a personal level. One of the most complicated skills of all is to be able to enjoy solitude without isolating oneself....

[@MarioBuildreps]

Good point. It was Aristotle. He said: "Whosoever is delighted in solitude is either a wild beast or a god".

[@TheMetalAllfather]

I was wrestling over the origin of that quote in my head, because I wasn't sure if it even was that old, and thought maybe Voltaire had said it, but I guess I was right.

[@TheMetalAllfather]

It's not guilt i feel though. I *like* being alone when I have the chance, I just know that far too often, I am, by choice, and maybe i should work to be a little more sociable at times when I have the opportunity to be so.

[@TheMetalAllfather]

No, not exactly. I've been through a lot, lost people close to me, lost family to disease and addiction, so for quite a long while I'd become very Anti-Social. And I still have a tendency to shun the outside, and prefer to simply be alone with myself, and my thoughts, which I know is actually unhealthy for the most part. Thus is why I say I've become *selectively* social in my recent years, because I still have the habit of being an abrasive person on bad days and have a hard time relating to people on anything other than superficial levels. I don't want to get into my entire life story here, but this is the end result of winning a 20+ year battle with depression.

[@blazec8756]

Shawn thanks for this. What you said about there being a difference between loneliness and being alone really hit me. It really helped me come to terms with myself and why I am the way I am. I appreciate the vid. Keep on keeping on.

[@loneranger7399]

I find a good dog and creativity keeps the lonely thing away

[@staxter6]

Touched a number of very personal chords there Shawn, appreciate your words and sage advice.

[@hopsricebarley]

there always seems to be wind there...a 400 watt wind generator would do for you quite well...especially since it works sun or not...not expensive either

[@dufus2273]

that's exactly what i was thinking.

[@drivenhome7840]

I used to live in a small village community. Alone, chopping wood, loved it. You wouldn't think it, but small communities have vast resources of community events. More so than in the city. There are so many events you never feel alone. Plus you're more apt to join one. I joined a Dragon Boat team, a Theatre arts group, help for the elderly in the winter. Running meet ups, Snow shoeing meet ups, Cross bow, axe throwing, knitting groups, you name it. You go home to the woods, the trees, the soft winds and hot fires. More memories in 2 years than 10 in the city. Loved it, will hopefully do it again.

[@j.bodnarczuk6757]

Shawn, Great spiel on getting away from man made noise! I still remember a small life-changing get away when I solo tented out in Shenandoah Valley in March 2013. I couldn’t sleep all night bc it was a lot colder than I prepared for. then next morning hiked for many miles in a heavenly perfect weather day. it was only one day but my love for the outdoors and not being afraid to do things alone was reignited!!

[@neoniahazelwood9263]

I would never be lonely as long as I have a dog, music, hear the birds chirping and see other animals.

[@legaleagleandpaws8198]

The three things you mentioned are rather perfect.:) I think he is right somewhat as "feeling lonely" and "being alone" are two completely different concepts. I would equate feeling lonely with feeling "empty" inside which is why some people can be lonely in a crowd. Being alone, as in no other human(s) around, and enjoying the three things you mentioned along with Father, is being "full" inside. More and more people are learning and yearning to just be:)

[@jacquelinedixon6438]

neonia hazelwood Me too, i cant wait to get off work at night and be with my dog, cat and bunny, i trust animals more then i do humans.

[@Gordonseries385]

Yes, the same thoughts here. My self now doing it different because of physical things. Being at older age now helps for the things I have experienced in the past and now have to cope with things now where I could not have in earlier life. So the computer and KZbin has help me with being lonely, and of course people like you and others to interact with. Being about 90 present bed ridden here things have really changed here, still going where I have led a very busy and active life for myself and changing things around here to try to keep the same mental activity can be a challenge. Enjoyed your video, and take care and be safe.

[@worldofenigma1]

I don't anyone could give anything if they see everyone as being whiny and awful. Better off being alone with a toxic attitude like that.

[@tasha1982ify]

Your videos are like a breath of fresh air... thank you - me too, i like to spend some time alone, just to be with myself and my thoughts, it recharges my batteries.. but never is was lonely! Thank you!

[@judy8117]

YOUR SO TALENTED the way you built what you call little cabin .OUTSTANDING WORK,I love your golden!♥️🐾♥️🐾♥️🐾

[@jimsteele7108]

Dick always kept his mind and body occupied. That's one of the reasons he was able to do what he did.

[@codyscoggins3489]

Really resonated with me. Thanks for the great video!

[@denaredford6701]

I read your comments before commenting . It appears many of your viewers are retired and their family is grown . I am one of your viewers who is more then twenty years your senior . I never thought I would be alone but it happens . Your channel helps with being alone . So thanks for the relaxing and interesting videos . You are doing a great thing building a homestead . Your grandchildren are going to love this camp .😍

[@12maoutdoors70]

Shawn, I think you hit the nail on the head. When I go for longer hunting trips, by the time I get back I'm ready to get into some interactions. That said, I've always enjoyed finding things to do by myself Outdoors. There's almost nothing more relaxing then taking time to clear your thoughts during outdoor activities.

[@AmericanWoman1964]

I love being alone. Im actually very introverted that way. Im very creative and can spend months without contact. My husband was a very quiet solo person also. We far preferred just each other's company. I would be very content as a hermit. I never feel lonely. When I want to express myself.. I do this. It's not that I don't like people. I make friends easily enough. Just.. how it is. And Im ok with that.

[@ryantoemmes9685]

A great time line to be alive Shawn 🙌🏻 Keep up the great work 👍🏻 I’m in for the long haul sir 💪🏻

[@bobchauncey63]

Very candid and honest discussion of his thought on wilderness living. I do it through your videos...thanks Shawn.

[@justamblin1519]

Shawn, I’ve been watching your videos from the beginning. I’ve never commented until today. I felt the need to share with you my similar thoughts to nature, it’s creatures and what it provides my inner soul when I am within it, surrounded by it. I grew up hunting, fishing, hiking, woodworking and camping. My grandfather built a cottage on a lake in Hayward, Wisconsin (along with a Sears Kit Home and two other cottages). I’ve made numerous trips in the Boundary Waters and backpacked down into The Grand Canyon. Even though spending every available moment at the cottage was a great experience, one never taken for granted and a true gift, I never really had the opportunity to see other beautiful areas the great State of Wisconsin had to offer. So, I bought a very small camper and at least once a month Saul, my Australian Cattle dog, and I will travel to one of our many state parks to amble amid nature, my backpack containing a jug of water, a thermos of coffee, a small camp stool and my notebook. I recently spent Thanksgiving, Christmas and the week after New Year’s camping at Mirror Lake State Park. I was the only inhabitant those long weekends, enjoying the sights, sounds and solitude. Which brings me back to why I am commenting. I think we both understand the periodic need and benefits of being alone and the difference, I learned a long time ago, between being alone and being lonely. Alone is a presence, a being. Lonely is an emotion, equivalent to fear or anger or uncertainty, all of which can easily fade or disappear just as quickly as they appeared or if necessary to one’s need or desire can consciously be worked through to put it out of one’s mind and move forward. A conscious effort is the key phrase. With some individuals it may take practice and in others it may only take patience to achieve the same end results. I have always enjoyed writing and have decided the time is now to put my thoughts and views into words. I some day hope to publish my works entitled, “In Layman’s Terms” but for the mean time I have posted a few of them on my personal Facebook page and others on In-My Layman-Terms. In closing Shawn, I thoroughly enjoy your insights and views on life because I have personally found that being open-minded and receptive has benefited my life in so many ways.

[@mariomp9532]

Great lesson! Sometimes I do enjoy my own companionship for more than a day and I think every man or woman who watches your videos likes that too, otherwise why would you build a cabin in the middle of the wilderness when you can build/buy a house in a village or a smaller city.

[@edowlut2004]

I live on my own with no neighbours and don`t see anybody for weeks, but I have two retrievers and three cats for company and my sons come over from UK every 12 weeks to visit and make sure I am okay, but for some people they do have to have people around which is fully understandable, by the way Bonus for Monday

[@grandma581]

I had to come back to thank you for this video. There are a lot of people who are lonely and dont have family or close friends for that matter. So for those people videos like yours gives people the opportunity to experience and explore along with you. It makes A persons life seem not so lonely , So for that I say thank you and.God bless.

[@samdynes9902]

I have watched almost all of your videos. On occasion, I will leave a positive comment. They are all really good. I look forward to them. This review of the "alone vs lonely" was as good as it gets. I am like you, fortunate with the ability to be alone without being lonely. Your comments and advice are so important. You keep getting better and better. Congrats on a very unique approach. The heartfelt calm truth is more of what we need in the turbulent life we are facing today in the USA. Thank you. For what its worth. you may be this generation's story of the value and opportunity we all have if we just calm down and stop looking for ways to pull others down others. Our new Base Ball Hat might say Walk a mile in their shoes. WMTS. With Appreciation.

[@derdickemann]

Hi from Germany, Shawn. I really enjoy your construction videos. As for energy... I often hear a rather sturdy breeze in the background. Have you ever considered to apply a wind-generator at the cabin?

[@ronnieahman6958]

Thanks Shawn for the video and your thougts about being alone. Now I'm talking generally. There's alot of people out there that are really alone with nowone to even talk to. Especially elderly people are feeling alone or even worse, they have been left alone. If you know somebody that's alone right know, why not contact him or her asking how his getting along. That can make a huge difference in that persons life. Start with your parents or if you have grandparents or a friend.

[@MySelfReliance]

Thank you, good point.

[@pshearduk]

Never posted before either. I too would like to thank you for your wonderful video's. I live in a city here in the UK called Edinburgh, and watching your videos is just a joy. Thank you so much for taking the time to do this. Take care, all the best. Paul.

[@suzanna6]

Loneliness can be different for people. I felt very alone and lonely in my abusive marriage. I find peace in being totally alone in nature and find these videos very soothing to watch. Everything seems very noisy these days especially. Shutting off the TV and the phone lets me do things at my very own pace. I truly wish I had the skills and strength to do what you do Shawn. I do need to see my family. My daughter, sisters and a few good friends. I also need to be alone. To read, think and keep my own schedule. One has to strike their own balance. Thank you for your incredibly beautiful videos Shawn. Wishing you all the best! Cali is the sweetest and happiest dog in the world. What great company she is.

[@lynnjames5039]

Me time is good for everyone, in my opinion.

[@wnalikka]

Besides theres sociala media one can turn on and off.

[@joopterwijn]

Maybe time for a extra set of panels of the other type on the roof, so just daylight would be sufficiently for loading...?

[@jrbon4619]

You're a kind and wise man. Thank you for your videos. I needed to see this.

[@edmcgowan1570]

I love the fact that your integrity has never faltered throughout your videos, and how watching and listening to you keeps me honest with myself on my own project. Thank you....and give Cali an ear scratch for me.

[@royk7712]

when i see a dog, i just say "what a good boy"

[@AletheaMcKee]

I bet Cali thinks you're talking to her all the time.

[@BJ-nw6ow]

I was thinking the same thing! Or when he is not looking at her when he's talking to us she's thinking my master is going nuts!

[@cindyvanhook7445]

I keep busy. I sleep well at night.

[@CaneRoot]

Golden speech Shawn! All your followers understood the meaning of the words spoken! You can be alone, but not be alone, and you can be in the whole vortex of social events and feel that by and large you do not need anyone! good luck!!! Greetings from Russia!!!

[@davidkirkman2223]

Shawn that book is a blessing to read. I have had my copy for over 10 years and still watch the dvd when i can