Where I Had HOPED To Be At This Point In My Life, 50-Years Ago.

Click to ENLARGE. Link to the Monastery.

Yes, I was going to be a Trappist monk -- leading a cloistered, celibate life, speaking very little. It really did APPEAL to me when I was in my late teens.

I really thought I could do it. I really wanted to do it. But, I didn't think I will live long enough for it to happen.

This was c. 1972, when was 19. I was attending University at 'Swansea' (30-miles away, as the crow flies). My then girlfriend (future wife) & I toured the Abbey one weekend. I was totally enamored. I told my girlfriend that I wanted to become a monk there when I was 70.

At that time 70 felt so far away. I actually didn't think I would live to see 30, never mind 70. 

So this was a pipedream.

My girlfriend kind of thought it was funny, but like I she also had trouble projecting that far ahead. She did, however, question whether, even at 70, I would be able to be celibate.

I have NOT been to Caldy since.

Now that I am well into my 70s I am not sure I could really be a monk.

Right now I have some obligations & commitments to my youngest daughter.

Not sure they would accept me as a novice.

Kind of funny.

How we think of retirement when it is more than 50 years in the offing.

Thought this would make you smile. Me as a Trappist monk -- celibate, obedient & SILENT.

😇