Why would anyone want to live a life separated from the rest of society, from family, friends, and colleagues? That is what St. Anthony of Egypt chose in the third century, but not because he was anti-social or misanthropic. He chose a solitary life as his form of discipleship. He spent his life in prayer.
Do you believe in the power of prayer? Do you really believe that God answers our prayers? Really? God answers our prayers in many ways, sometimes yes, sometimes no, sometimes later. Sometimes he answers our prayers through others or through our experiences or difficulties. God may require us to be persistent and perseverant in our prayer, praying that his will, not ours be done.
Is it worth dedicating your life to? St. Anthony did, as do many men and women who have become monks and nuns. There have dedicated themselves to praying, in praise of God, in intercession for others, in thanksgiving for the gifts we have received. We too are called to pray so that we may know God's will, that we may praise him, that we may intercede for others, and that we may express our love and devotion. To live a life of prayer is to live a life in constant conversation with God. That is what St. Anthony chose. Not a bad choice, if you think about it.
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