Why I Dream of Being a Hermit

You can guess by the blog name. I am into the idea of being a hermit. I forgot where it all started. Maybe it was the constant longing to do whatever I want, whenever I want. Maybe it was my love for solitude. Whichever it may be, the idea took root and I don’t think I ever want any dream as much as I want this one.

But what is a hermit and why would I want to be one?

A hermit has religious origins. Usually, it is a term used to refer to someone who lives in seclusion, but often as a religious discipline. I am not in any way motivated by religion. But I do have this burning desire to retire from society and live in complete solitude. Maybe I should have called myself a recluse instead?

My motivations are not really particular. I just know for certain that I am not fit to live with anyone. I mean, not for life. I am not sure if I can handle another human being, so living in solitude seems to be the best answer.

I also like being alone with my thoughts. I am not craving solitude just to sound cool or edgy. There were countless times in my life when being alone was a need.

How I plan to get there

I am preparing for this, step by step. I used to have a savings account that I allocate for my hermit dreams or my funeral, whichever comes first. Of course, I don’t mean to sound morbid, nor do I plan my eventual demise. I want to live life fully first, but I also know how uncertain the future is for plans. I just take one day at a time, at my own pace.

Lately, I also thought about buying a piece of land where I can build my hermit house. It’s not as far from society as I would have liked, but I’m a cautious human so I’m sticking to a safer route to my hermit dreams.

I have collected hundreds of books, too, carefully handpicked so I can read my life away. Not really kidding on this one. I still have a long way to go to complete my dream library, but I will get there, by hook or by crook.

Of course, I made it a point to own Thoreau’s Walden and Marcus Aurelius’ Meditations.

I know being a hermit is not really compatible with an increasingly modern world. I mean, we’ve never been more connected than now, when digital technology bridged the gap between distance and time. How can I evade fellow humans when we’ve become closer than ever?

But maybe it will be easier. Physical contact won’t be necessary. My family and friends won’t have to feel like I’m abandoning them or something because I can always be a call or text away. That is if I decide to keep gadgets.

I might change my mind later. But for now, this dream is something that I have nourished for decades and will continue to do so for many years to come.

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