I go to monasteries to appreciate and absorb the lessons monks are learning. I recognize the priorities and practices they are developing in their lives each day, and I seek to incorporate some of the same values and actions into my days. I am a lay person who has committed myself to live by a […]
What is it About Being a Monk? Read More »
We expect our leaders to be better than we are. We assume, deep inside ourselves, that a person who can lead an organization well can lead themselves well. We believe that the actions of leaders we see in the world demonstrate values like effectiveness, organization, and inspiration. We project that these actions reflect the inner
Book Review: Fallen Pastor Read More »
I do not enjoy waiting. I enjoy it when things happen right away. I enjoy going fast. I was brought up to appreciate having the right answers. One aspect of “having the right answers” is that getting there does not take very long. It is all about having the answers, not about waiting to get
Waiting & Anticipation Read More »
The most challenging struggle of my life has been to discover and become who I really am. I protect my true self from myself, and everyone else, with elaborate systems of distractions, detours, and defenses. Like a medieval castle, I am behind a moat that is difficult to cross, surrounded by nearly impenetrable walls, and
Being My True Self Read More »
Happy Saint Brigit’s Day! Read more about the connection between contemplation and ale. Click here.
“I Should Like a Great Lake of Ale” Read More »
Centering Prayer is one of my contemplative practices. Centering prayer is a form of prayer, and a way to learn how to become more open to the presence of the Holy. It is based in the understanding that God is always with us, and that when I seem to be far from God it is
The question I get asked more than any other is, Are you a real monk? Yes, I am. Though, it may look a little different from what you expect. Many people have a picture of monks as people, probably men, who want to avoid the challenges of living in the “real world” and live in
Are You a Real Monk? Read More »
We begin at the beginning. What happens next depends on our focus and flexibility. Then, with effort and skill, and a lot of help, we accomplish what we set out to do. We achieve our goal, finish on time and under budget, keep our resolution, set a personal best. We meet our commitments, finish the
Each End is a New Beginning Read More »
Benedict’s Rule tells us that “Always, we begin again.” Beginning is important. Beginning can be exciting and energizing. A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step, and every day on that journey depends on a first step. Now, at the beginning of a new month and a new year, we continue our journeys
Always, We Begin Again Read More »
It is a challenge for me to be awake and alive to the possibilites of each moment. I am easily distracted from the present by the regrets and excuses of the past, and the fears and fantasies of the future. It takes a lot of work to be attentive to the present, and working that
Savoring the Present Moment Read More »
