Work and the Desert

Work is a fundamentally ascetic enterprise (an ascesis). You learn not to lie in bed awake. You stop luxuriating in long showers. You fast from excess food and sweets and drink – fast from excesses of all kinds. You may work with others, but the fundamental things are solitary. Restraint, self-control, moderation. You are what they call self-motivated, which means that no one else can give you the reason for your commitment to work. Ultimately, the path of work will always lead you to the desert and peace. [from the Rules of Work]