I know that a life lived in society is useful for many things. (…) But what good is it to live in solitude and apart from everyone else? Where does humility show itself in someone who has no one before whom they feel lesser? Where is mercy when separated from the community of many people? How will one practice patience when no one opposes their will? If someone claims that the teachings of the holy scriptures are enough for moral correction, they act like one who learns to build but never actually constructs anything. Behold, the Lord did not settle for mere teaching contained in words but clearly and explicitly gave us an example of humility in perfect love, girding Himself and washing the feet of His disciples. Whom do you want to wash? Whom do you want to serve? How do you wish to be last when you are only living with yourself?
(Basil the Great /330–377/, excerpt from the writing Asceticism)
