When I think of famous hermits, I usually think of Henry David Thoreau not Ted Kaczynski, but when my blogging coach (nag), Steve Mays, came up with Kaczynski as the prime “hermit” example, it didn’t surprise me; I’ve seen the reference before. Is Kaczynski the “most famous” hermit because he’s more contemporary or is it because his exploits are more fascinating in today’s culture? I can’t resist quoting Anais Nin here: “We don’t see things as they are, we see them as we are!”
Merriam-Webster Online defines a hermit as “one that retires from society and lives in solitude especially for religious reasons.” The word originates in Christianity – from “eremites” – those 40-years-wandering-the-desert types. I’m a spiritual person, but not religious. The only deserts I wander in include air-conditioned casinos. But I do consider living in nature a form of meditation, and I do spend a reasonable amount of time contemplating the “big themes” especially while walking or doing chores. Perhaps what it comes down to is this: I am not actually “hiding” in the woods, I’m simply choosing to live here buffered from human population. Clearly, Thoreau was also “choosing” not “hiding” – my kind of hermit.
I guess it could be said that Ted Kaczynski withdrew from society for religious reasons – his own anti-technology zealotry. As a sociopathic, serial killer he also elected himself “God” and started arbitrarily sending other people ”toward the light.” Zealotry as an excuse to commit murder is, sadly, nothing new or unusual. But one reason the “Unabomber” remained unidentified for so long was because Ted was hiding.
Therefore, from here on I’ll be more careful about use of the term “hiding in the woods .” “Choosing” vs “hiding” is an important distinction. Choosing solitude seems more in keeping with the dictionary definition of a hermit and it’s more consistent with my motivation. I think most of my long-term friends (and yes, I do have one or two) know that I was easy-going and peaceful before moving to the woods – I’m just happier in the quiet of nature.
But even some who retreat to the woods motivated by anger, or hiding from misdeed, are ultimately rewarded by the discovery of peace, forgiveness, and redemption. Such is the transformative quality of meditation in nature. One’s initial motivation for retreating may be less significant than those ultimate discoveries.
See? that wasn’t hard, was it? I referenced the unabomber in my first post in an effort to be provocative but softened it with a gentle nod to HDT.
I suspect there are many who would love to join you in peace and tranquility. Your blog can give them a taste, perhaps.
I love the photos in your flickr badge. Would also like to see you feature some inline with your future posts.