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christofirst
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“Learn to love solitude and silence. Set aside some suitable times for meditation, and think of the favors that God has granted you. Do not busy your mind about subtle questions.” The Imitation of Christ, Book 1, XX.The Imitation of Christ is written with very short chapters, with each packed full of prayerful meditations that is great for actually engaging in contemplative prayer. Check it out.
LOVE!
So true! I first read this penitential classic, a few pages before work each morning, deep in the parking structure under the Arco Plaza, Downtown L.A. As I recall, the contemplative emphasis was toward a more discursive meditation, which is good.
Another classic of contemplative prayer which points to a more apophatic way of prayer is The Cloud of Unknowing:
“So, then, you must reject all clear conceptualizations whenever they arise, as they inevitably will, during the blind work of contemplative love.” Chapter 9: That the most sublime thoughts are more hindrance than help during the time of contemplative prayer.
Again, Happy Easter to all!