Being a monk does not free us from any of that. We always have to find a way to continue to relate to our families and to help them as that is possible for us. Generally all we get to do for our families is to pray for them. We are also able to go and be with them in time of great difficulties. One of the challenges for a group of men living the monastic life is the cleaning of our buildings and rooms.
Some brothers are always aware of dirt and are able to clean well and keep things in order.
Other brothers seem not to have learned those kinds of lessons. As in any family or any group living together, we must find ways to encourage one another to keep up a high standard of cleanliness and orderliness. When I was traveling in Italy and India and Mexico this last trip, I also realize that there are different cultural expectations about cleanliness and orderliness. Today we have to be sensitive to such things and it is not always easy. The dirt and garbage that can be found on roads and highways can be appalling.