Religious Extremes

I consider myself a religious person but my devotion is put to shame by the extremes a devout monk went to . I don't thing I could live under the strict laws of a Benedict monastery. I can understand why some Christians may have switched to the Muslim faith after because it was considered less complicated. The most devoted Christians gave up everything including their freedom to live a life of solitude. Even though there were many other monks around they were discouraged to speak to each other. Self punishment and humiliation was expected. If you didn't correct yourself when saying a chant or prayer you were whipped. This seems to be the holy gang. The members had to be initiated and prove their devotion. I don't think I could live such a strict life.