THERE IS NO NEED to fear yourself. There is no need to avoid yourself. There is no need to be afraid of your own company.

Why then are so many individuals terrified at the prospect of being alone?

Ask the jealous men and scorned women of the world, "What is your greatest fear?" and they will undoubtedly tell you that it is being unattached and alone. But why do so many of us dread our own company?

Consider the woman who complains about the man in her life who cheats on her time and again. What keeps the woman from leaving the scoundrel? It is the prospect of being alone.

Human beings have an innate desire for companionship which has been passed down from generation to generation through evolution. It is so powerful within us that we will knowingly and willingly stay in a miserable relationship for months, years, and perhaps even a lifetime(!) rather than face the prospect of being alone.

So the next time you find yourself horrified at the thought of spending just one night alone, remember this: If you don't enjoy your own company, then why in heaven's name should anybody else?

Love thy neighbor—and thyself.