Thursday, July 24, 2008

Summer Reading...


I've been asked, more than once, by women in discernment with our community, to assemble a list of books that I would recommend to the spiritual seeker. Having no authority other than my own preferences, I offer you a short list of the books that have changed me. These books are in no particular order but they reflect a decade of searching in my own life. Some are "heady" but most or just soul-stretching reflection. I think GOD uses everything to help us see the next step in the path. Certainly, the core events of our lives - joys and sufferings - are the most illuminative. Spiritual reading, though, plays a significant part of the everyday search for holiness. Whether it's five minutes, five pages or five chapters a day, we will be changed by what we read. That's not to say that all spiritual reading will be edifying. Some books don't seem to do much for us. But, Michael Casey, OCSO, urges us to read them start to finish anyway. Every book has its integrity - a message intended to be heard in its fullness. So even the dry and dull can have an effect on the soul. Having never written a book, I am in awe of both the process and the vulnerability of those who dare to share the insights of their inner life. The books that really change us are the ones we cannot forget. We might not remember every idea or even the main thrust of the author's work, but we know that this book was part of GOD's plan for us. We remember where we were on the spiritual journey when we read it and where it helped us to go. So, I offer these books to you who are searching for GOD's will in your life. Perhaps one of them might let in some light or even help you to close another door. If you've read something really good lately, I'd love to hear about it. vocations@osbva.org It's good to be back on-line. More tomorrow...

Blessings and love,

- Sister Vicki

http://www.sisterbloggers.blogspot.com/