"لا أحد يستمتع بصحبة الآخرين بقدر ما يستمتع بها الشخص الذي عادةً ما يتجنب صحبة الآخرين"

The core of this saying is that people who often shy away from social situations can deeply appreciate and savor the moments they do spend with others. It’s the classic tale of scarcity making something more valuable. Think about it — when someone doesn't engage much in social settings, those rare interactions become more precious and savored.

Historically, this sentiment can resonate with introverts or those who, for whatever reason, generally keep to themselves. Maybe it’s someone who’s always been a bit of a loner, or perhaps someone recovering from a phase where social interactions were minimized. When these individuals do partake in social gatherings, they tend to value these moments more intensely than those who are constantly surrounded by others.

Imagine a writer who spends most of his time in solitary confinement with his work. When he finally steps out for a coffee with an old friend, the conversation feels richer and more meaningful. He’s not taking that interaction for granted because it’s not something he gets every day. Every joke, every shared memory, every laugh — it all feels heightened, almost like a feast for a starving man.

So, how do you apply this? If you find yourself in the position of the introvert, embrace it. Don’t feel pressured to follow the social norms that push you to be constantly engaged with others. When you do decide to socialize, be fully present. Savor those moments. Engage deeply. Ask meaningful questions. Listen intently. You’ll find that the quality of your social interactions improves even if the quantity doesn’t.

For those who thrive in social settings, this quote serves as a reminder to sometimes take a step back. Spend some time alone — not out of isolation, but as a way to recharge and deepen your appreciation for the times you do spend with others. It’s a bit like fasting before a big meal. You’ll find your interactions feel richer and more satisfying.

Let’s bring this to life with a little story. Imagine you’re at a party. There’s this guy, let’s call him Tom. Tom is usually the life of the party, bouncing from conversation to conversation. Then there’s Sarah, who’s attended very few social events over the past year. She’s been focusing on her art and has spent a lot of time alone. Tom’s having the usual good time. He’s chatting, laughing, but it’s all a bit surface-level. Meanwhile, Sarah is engaged in a deep, fascinating conversation about creativity and inspiration. She’s truly present, soaking up every word. For her, this party is a rare treat, and she’s making the most of it.

In this scenario, Sarah’s limited social encounters make her appreciate and enjoy the company of others more intensely. She doesn’t need to be the center of attention or constantly surrounded by people to feel fulfilled. One meaningful interaction is enough to fill her up.

So next time you feel a bit like a hermit, remember that it’s okay. When you do decide to step out, those interactions will mean so much more to you. And if you’re always out and about, try dialing it back every now and then. You might find you appreciate your social moments even more.