[Nihil Obstat]

In the Gospels, Jesus goes off alone to pray several times. There must be some value in it.

[Dr. Eckleburg]

An hour or a day spent in prayer and reflection can be strengthening.

But a life devoted to monasticism is aptly described as "misanthropy," as AlbionGirl pointed out.

Are all children fed? Are all the sick healed? Until those conditions occur, a monastic life seems selfish and fearful.