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4.09 of 5 stars
The Monks of New Skete believe human beings were created to be happy, and that the elements of a monk's life -- self-discipline, prayer, acts of lo... read full description

reviews

Aug 13, 2008
Nate rated it: 5 of 5 stars
What a well-balanced and practical guide of monastic wisdom for the 21st century. This community is rooted in Orthodoxy, but open to all Christian traditions and all people, for that matter. It clearly and convincingly shows that the vocation of a monk is none other than the vocation of every Christian, that is, to be present with God in all of life, in every situation.

Lots of really helpful insights into how to live as a follower of Christ in a balanced, God-glorifying way. I More...
0 comments like (1 person liked it)
Oct 17, 2007
Heather rated it: 5 of 5 stars
I've been seeking spiritual growth & this book really helped me. It's written by Christian monks but they are not exclusionary (thank God!). Many things resonated with me: such as meditating by reading the Psalms and keeping myself conscious of whatever it is I'm doing.

A quote from the book:
"We're not made for drudgery. Drudgery in life exists because human beings are also weak. We're defective, we make mistake, we succumb too easily to negative attitudes. ... It's More...
Oct 11, 2008
Matt rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Very good book through and through. Much sage wisdom herein, and many good reminders of the basics regarding right and embodied living. The last chapter—unlike all those gone before—left a bit to be desired, though. While attempting to encourage the reader’s best efforts towards “happiness,” the results appear to be too dependant on human effort (rather than, say, a collaborative sense of “joy”). I trust the monks could clarify what they meant were the question to be asked, but clarifying it More...
Oct 03, 2011
Thalia rated it: 5 of 5 stars
About halfway through this book, I am taking a breather. So far, I love it. It addresses spiritual journeying and knowledge-seeking, and the message (so far) is: it's difficult, there are no easy answers, live life in moderation, searching is a continual quest, seek out joy. This book is written with numerous anecdotes and conversational pieces throughout, which are one of the best ways, I think, to write about spiritual growth, and that is, write down conversations between people (usually tw More...
Aug 20, 2007
Jacob rated it: 3 of 5 stars
A nice walk through monasticism and everyday spiritual life, by people who know a lot about raising dogs. Nothing heartbreaking and revolutionary so far, but recommended as a nicely written intro into contemplative practice and an antidote to words like "blogosphere" or phrases like "monetize site traffic." Plus, who doesn't like to say "New Skete"?
Jun 05, 2008
Ryan rated it: 4 of 5 stars
There was a lot about this book that I liked. It has several very good, very timely messages about the nature of humanity and its spiritual needs.
Sep 18, 2008
Bill rated it: 5 of 5 stars
Excellent insights on how to acheive happiness in this life based on monastic principles. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!
Sep 11, 2010
TheAcaciaTree rated it: 5 of 5 stars
A beautiful and honest look at monastic life and how one might live it today.
Jul 06, 2009
Christan rated it: 4 of 5 stars
refreshing. loved it.
Feb 11, 2012
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Jan 23, 2012
Hoyt rated it: 4 of 5 stars
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Sep 09, 2011
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