Unlikely Monks

Today's National Post carries a provocative story on the life of Thomas Merton, An Unlikely Monk - whose early life and conversion bear much resemblance to his inspiration St. Augustine. Popular interest in monastic practices has shot up as the romanticism of denial in an age of too much choice and abundance stirs almost rebellious, adventurous and noble notions. But the question of the article that sits with me, one which Merton spent much time with, is what "value lives of disengagement and contemplation brought to general society"?

I'm not so sure I want to easily couple disengagement with contemplation. It seems to me genuine engagement - engagement which rises beyond the insecurity of self - begins and ends with contemplation. I think the question I prefer is: what quality or kind of engagement does contemplation suggest in general society?

For the rest of this week and this weekend I will be retreating for silence and contemplation at St. Gregory's Abbey, in Three Rivers (MI). I warmly anticipate meals, conversation and reflection on this with friends and colleagues who are joining me.