Yes,she is ill and this happens to many elderly sorry to say.
She was very sick.

What a shame. Was she a "hoarder", also? Seems like there ought to be a connection, but I'm no psychiatrist. Continue to enjoy life and living, Jeri!

Cherishing and living fully and richly and joyfully the gift of each day is all we can do, for all we truly have is this day. Sadly, there are many thoughts, issues, foibles, illnesses, delusions that can cloud one's vision of life, removing its brightness. There are also those who choose happily and willingly to follow philosophies or practices that are strange or restrictive. Unfortunately, some who follow such practices have mental health issues that, for many reasons, pull them along as prisoners. Help is available, but they cannot reach for it. Many are lost to themselves in ways that are very dark.

One can't really know what motivated your acquaintance, but I have sympathy for her, as I know you do. Most of all, I'm reminded of the preciousness of life, and celebrate the treasure of each moment.

So sorry about your friend.

She was obviously mentally ill. Here is a def. for "mortifying the flesh" from online dictionary: to discipline (one's body and physical appetites) by self-denial or self-inflicted privation. What a fun lady.

Good Grief! Even nuns enjoy AC and a good diet! Life is to be enjoyed. I wonder if she was able to love freely.

Big hugs to you, my best friend in the world.

"mortifying the flesh?| My warped imagination is having a hard time with this one too.

Life is so short. We must try to appreciate every day we have and fill it with good moments. I am like Kristy. I don't know exactly what "mortifying the flesh" means.

mortifying the flesh? What does that mean? Sorry for your loss - and I concur - enjoy the simple things daily!!!