The Way of Silence: Engaging the Sacred in Daily Life

Popular spirituality teacher Steindl-Rast (Gratefulness) writes a deceptively short book packed with rich food for thought. The Benedictine monk offers deep insight into prayer in a fetching opening chapter that he ties to a variety of personal experiences as well as reflections on the Trinity. He nimbly makes connections and plumbs observations of everyday things, as the title promises. The book is like a buffet of small plates, best savored chapter by chapter. The theme of mysticism, which for Steindl-Rast is both the starting point and goal of the world's religions, connects and unifies the exposition. He borrows from esteemed spirituality writer Thomas Merton, another monk who plumbed silence, as he opens the door to contemplating the universe of "limitless belonging." From there the book moves through paradox, the bodily roots of mindfulness, the revelation of God through the senses, and other vast topics. To the rationalist believer this is woolly stuff, but the author consistently anchors his mysticism in the concrete detail of daily life. Steindl-Rast serves up another well-seasoned helping of spirituality. (June)