Do not forget that you can be alone amid the noise of the world...
Do not forget that you can be alone amid the noise of the world; and equally you can be surrounded by the hubbub of the world while withdrawn in your cell.
You will have something better than external seclusion if you retreat in this way within yourself, thus making it impossible for any external turmoil to distract you. Pray that you may be granted this.
- St Theophan the Recluse
The Art of Prayer
