Learning from a Celtic hermit

A hermit is someone who escapes from the world to live simply in a remote place in order that they may cultivate their relationship with God. It is not about running away from life for when we are on our own we can become very aware of ourselves and the things about ourselves that are hidden by the noise of life going on around us. The fantasies of our dreams will become more intense in the long hours of solitude. The hermits life was hard but ultimately rewarding.  In the simplicity of a hut or cave in a remote place hermits were known for their wisdom and would be sought out for advice. 

In Lent as we think about what is really important in life and how we clutter our lives with so much that doesn't ultimately matter, the ancient Irish hermits song speaks to us of finding the real meaning of life.

THE HERMIT'S SONG

I wish, O Son of the living God, O ancient, eternal King,
For a hidden little hut in the wilderness that it may be my dwelling.
An all-grey lithe little lark to be by its side,
A clear pool to wash away sins through the grace of the Holy Spirit.
Quite near, a beautiful wood around it on every side,
To nurse many-voiced birds, hiding it with its shelter.
A southern aspect for warmth, a little brook across its floor,
A choice land with many gracious gifts such as be good for every plant.
A few men of sense—we will tell their number—
Humble and obedient, to pray to the King:—
Four times three, three times four, fit for every need,
Twice six in the church, both north and south:—
Six pairs besides myself,
Praying for ever the King who makes the sun shine.
A pleasant church and with the linen altar-cloth, a dwelling for God from Heaven;
Then, shining candles above the pure white Scriptures.
One house for all to go to for the care of the body,
Without ribaldry, without boasting, without thought of evil.
This is the husbandry I would take, I would choose, and will not hide it:
Fragrant leek, hens, salmon, trout, bees.
Raiment and food enough for me from the King of fair fame,
And I to be sitting for a while praying God in every place.

This poem is found in "Selections from Ancient Irish Poetry" TRANSLATED BY  KUNO MEYER
LONDON   1911

Image courtesy of Evgeni Dinev at FreeDigitalPhotos.net