This is what we have observed in some youth who purport to be pious, and who believe that their piousness necessitates isolation from family, relatives, colleagues and society…

1. At home, we find our young man living in complete
   isolation under the guise of “piousness,” having withdrawn from all communications and fellowshipping with members of his family. He does not share in their troubles, happiness, or hardships, and considers himself to be the only person who prays, fasts, sacrifices, and meditates on the Holy Bible, He preaches thus, and despises all deeds of his family members.
2. Whether he be in an academic or business setting, he
   views all people as being “evil.” He flees socialization and is completely withdrawn.
3. He lives in isolation, as a secluded society within a society; he has no interest in knowing anything about his surrounding community. Strangely enough, when blamed or questioned about his attitude, he considers that criticism to be the cross he has to carry for the Lord. This, in turn, increases his efforts at being withdrawn. Unfortunately all this propels him to be defensive both with others and with himself.

From Heart to Heart
Fr. Tadros Y. Malaty