Words Of Common Sense

by David Steindl-Rast, Thomas Moore

Brother David Steindl-Rast takes us on a journey to discover the wisdom preserved in common sense sayings that have been passed down through generations. These timeless words reflect the shared values cherished by people all over the world. "When you drink from a stream,” says one Chinese proverb, “remember the spring." From these simple words we are reminded to be grateful for even the smallest graces that we receive. Another homespun phrase tells us that "a contented heart is a continual feast," reminding us to look within, rather than without, for the source of our happiness. Words of Common Sense  reveals the thread of human experience expressed in the world’s proverbs and sayings. It helps us connect with cultures other than our own and recognize our shared humanity. These words resonate around the world because they are timeless reflections on how to cultivate a life of love, gratitude, and meaning.

Genres: Audiobook, Nonfiction

112 pages, Hardcover

First published October 1, 2002

About the author

Brother David Steindl-Rast is a Benedictine monk, author, and lecturer widely recognized for his commitment to interfaith dialogue and his emphasis on gratitude as a transformative spiritual practice. Born in Vienna in 1926, he survived the challenges of World War II before emigrating to the United States in 1952. He entered monastic life at Mount Saviour Monastery and went on to engage deeply with both Christian and Buddhist traditions, studying with notable Zen masters. His work bridges spirituality and science and has led him to collaborate with religious and cultural figures across traditions. He co-founded the Center for Spiritual Studies and A Network for Grateful Living, advocating for gratefulness as essential to human flourishing. His writings include Gratefulness, the Heart of Prayer and Belonging to the Universe (with Fritjof Capra). Known for his mystical approach, he describes religion as a living flame that must be rediscovered beneath layers of doctrine, ritual, and dogma.

Reviews

[Maksym Gontar · Rating 1 out of 5]

The suggestion of replacing "Holy Spirit" with "common sense" suddenly reminded me of st. Paul words that the wisdom of this world is folly with God (1 Cor 3:18-20), and the verse from the Book of Proverbs advising not to lean on your own understanding (Prov 3:50).

Then again, when the author talks about fasting as a healthy practice or a way to earn God's favor - such a nonsense... In fact, the Church is teaching that the fasting is nothing but making a place for God in our hearts, by putting off the worldly pleasures for a little time.

Blaming the Church, exalting the common sense of the world - well, welcome another antichrist.

[Barbara Lovejoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

My ward bishop, Jonas Sappington, shared a quote with me by David Steindl-Rast that I really liked. I had never heard of him so I googled him and discovered what an amazing man he is. That led me to a journey that included books he had written. This book was one. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading it again.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

January

[David Poltorak · Rating 3 out of 5]

[listened to on audiobook, 2 hours]