Do you think becoming a Christian monk is in any way an escape from real life?

[Shakuhachi]

I used to think that once I entered the monastery all I had to do was what I was told and be on some automatic track to holiness. Alas, I was young and immature in so many ways.

 

[goodcatholic]

Beware our expectations of anything. Expecting a new job to be easy or fun or exciting or rewarding is bound to get you disappointed.
This is what you learn as you get old. Don’t expect much and you might be pleasantly surprised.

 

[guanophore]

There are plenty of people to “offer advice”. It will be contradictory. Who’s wisdom do you value?

When you hear advice that resonates with how the Holy Spirit is leading, you will know in your heart, even if it is advice you do not like, or want!

Some go to monasteries to avoid people. So they can live in their own quiet bubble. I imagine the reality of a monastery is quite different.

Those who are not called to monastic life will always wash out eventually.

 

[goodcatholic]

This thread has put to bed my illusions about ever becoming a monk. I struggle with the reality of my current situation. Living in a monastery would throw my mind into chaos I fear. The Divine Office and psalm chanting wouldn’t be enough . I’d be like a fish out of water.

 

[Entwhistler]

Not all monks live in cloistered monasteries. The Dominicans go out and preach to folks. They often teach in colleges and universities.