February 11, 1999

Hermits

I've been trying to understand why hermits actually flee to the wilderness. It cannot be because of an acute hatred of humanity. Too many great scholars like St. Augustine spent years away in some hidden cave or hill and they left for humanity great texts on everything concerning philosophy to mathematics to gum care. The fact that hermits actually become the wise men on the mount and dole out wisdom to people who approach him after a strenuous travel. It can't be for comfort either. Have you ever seen how the guru in the B.C. comics sits on the mountain? That man must have sphincter muscles of steel.

Actually, with all joking aside, hermits exist in various states of physical endurance. Hwy they exist is so they can fully achieve one sacred pleasure. If a person sees it fit enough to journey over rugged terrain just to hear the scant words of advice of the enlightened hermit, they will be happy and will get increasingly happier as they get closer to the isolated sage.

The hermit from his mountain peak or cave will get to relish this smile from a far off distance. Nothing is more special when you see someone smiling to him or herself just because they know they are coming closer to you. Hermits might only get one visitor a year, but the smile makes the visit last.

I would be a hermit, but I got a smile at a distance today.