Journey Quote by Monks of New Skete
““What of ourselves? In actuality the monk’s journey is everyone’s journey, though in our frenetic world of activity and distraction we often miss the fact that we are also desert wanderers. Who or what leads us? In this day and age, we are dangerously out of touch with the nonhuman world around us, leaving our hearts dulled and our vision blurred. Nothing impresses us anymore, and we travel farther into a disharmonious cavern of individualism, with ourselves as guides. We arrogantly “process” reality through preconceived notions that are sterile and cold. Our world is stripped of a profound and compelling mystery.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Desert Journey, Monks of New Skete, 1995
The quote warns that modern distraction blinds us to our shared humanity and the mystery of the natural world, turning us into isolated wanderers.
In simple terms: Modern life blinds us to shared humanity and nature.
Reconnect with nature and community.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- urban living
- personal reflection
- environmental activism
- spiritual retreats
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance personal ambition with communal responsibility?
- What practices help us notice the nonhuman world?
Our focus on personal goals can limit collective insight.