The soul
could be happier anywhere than where it happens to be.
Roger McGough

North Bridge, Edinburgh. Simon Hodge

Learning to pray doesn't offer us a less busy life; it offers us a less busy heart.
Paul E. Miller, A Praying Life

But the Lord God called to the man, “Where are you?” Genesis 3:9

God, whose love and joy
are present everywhere,
can't come to visit you
unless you aren't there
Angelus Silesius

Withdrawal?

I take from this chorus of quotes, these witnesses, this suggestion or instruction;

Contemplative living, like a retreat, is a path or means of integration more than of separation, it is not for example a withdrawal from people or from life. It is eyes wide open rather than closed, a window raised that the rustle of the outdoors and the fresh breeze may be experienced. Integrity* is at stake and being present is an essential ingredient wherever we are; in the street or in a prayer cell.

* of the inner and outer life, of heaven and earth, as expressed and encouraged in the incarnation