Benedict Labre

Practically no one knows what to make of a genuine contemplative life. That is not to say that in order to be considered contemplative you have to strive to be misunderstood. Infused contemplation is the most simple proposition of all. But once again all that needs saying is that few people know what to make of an authentic contemplative life. This misunderstanding stems from the inescapable difficulties that arise from a life that is not enculturated. Social norms are lost on such a one. If the case is bad enough then even officially sanctioned religious may not accept them. Such was Benedict Labre, ultimately rejected by both the Cistercians and Carthusians, he is as yet is the only one who has lived as either who has been canonized since the Middle Ages.