Career: Nuns and Monks
Nuns made the headlines in 2002 when Dr. David Snowdon published his book Aging With Grace, which describes what he calls "the nun study."
Snowdon studied the lifestyle and outlook of nuns to see how their vocation affected their health. His book portrays these women as upbeat, smart, and healthy -- and reminds us that there's much to be said for living a life of reflective devotion and service, outside of the scramble for money and success. Nuns and monks have known this for centuries.
Nuns and monks are people who devote their lives to practicing their religion. They opt for a simple, spiritual life over mainstream choices such as having a family or climbing the career ladder.
Did You Know?
- Monks and nuns are sometimes called brothers and sisters.
Are You Ready To...?
- Pray or meditate daily
- Consider gaining expertise in a field such as social work or teaching
- Take a vow of poverty
- Possibly live in a community with other monks or nuns
It Helps to Be...
Someone who has deep faith, values simplicity, and gains strength from following a spiritual discipline. These qualities will give you the courage and motivation to give up typical pastimes and pursuits.
Make High School Count
- Get involved in the religious faith to which you feel most drawn.
- Ask local religious leaders to help you contact monks or nuns; talk to them about their experiences and ask for advice.
- Turn off the TV, the computer, and the cell phone. Take a walk in nature or read a spiritual text, reflecting on life's deeper meanings.
- Cultivate friendships with others who have spiritual leanings.
- Take a religion class if your school offers it.
Did You Know?
- Many nuns are Catholic; many monks are Buddhist. But there are nuns and monks in both faiths and in many other religions, too.
Compensation
Many nuns and monks take vows of poverty. They often live in religious communities with other nuns or monks.
