The Mystic Hours: A Daybook of Inspirational Wisdom and Devotion

Teasdale, a lay monk and spiritual teacher, offers 365 insights on mysticism in this useful quote book that draws from all of the world's major religions. The format is traditional; first, Teasdale offers up a quote from a sacred text or major religious thinker, such as St. Augustine, Thomas Merton, Baha'u'llah, Rumi, Pema Chodron and, of course, the mystic guru Meister Eckhart. (Other choices, such as Mel Gibson, are less predictable.) Teasdale then reflects on the quote in particular and its theme more generally, drawing connections between religions and pointing to the goal of every mystic: to achieve union with the divine. Some of this succinct spiritual commentary is wonderfully cogent and a fine tool on the path to personal transformation.