Where to find souls of deeper interiority, contemplative souls? Among the crowds and coteries vying for recognition from one another, seeking attention for themselves? A true interior soul is found only when these drives are conquered. These souls are of course not just in cloisters and monasteries, living in solitude. Some may be living next to us. There is no unmistakable sign to indicate them, but if we look closer, we may notice a hint. Even while content or affable or engaging, they are captive to a solitude they cannot escape even in company with others. But of course, they are not actually alone. They have a companionship even when it may seem they are plunged far into their desert aloneness.
Photograph of Brother Adam by Brother Brian. Selection from Donald Haggerty, Contemplative
Provocations