As part of my sabbatical journey, I recently had the privilege of spending a day with Leonardo, a third-generation truffle hunter, and his stepdaughter, Julia. This experience illuminated profound lessons about trust, forgiveness, and our connection to the earth.
Read MoreIn the communal life of faith, maintaining peace is paramount. Maximus the Confessor warns us to shun all suspicions and the individuals who cause us to take offense. To harbor offense, whether it is intentional or unintentional, is to stray from the path of peace—a path that love illuminates and leads us to divine knowledge.
Read MoreIn a world where fear often holds sway and the focus is, on growth, ROI and predictable success it's easy to overlook the importance of having a vision and practicing patience. However every now and then a story comes along that serves as a reminder of these virtues. Today I'd like to share with you the inspiring tale of Tomassio and his father—a narrative that embodies tradition, determination and an unwavering dedication to pursuing a dream.
Read MoreIn the communal life of a monastery, the bonds of brotherhood are as essential as the air we breathe. These bonds are built on mutual respect, understanding, and the shared pursuit of spiritual growth. Maximus the Confessor warns us of a grave danger to these bonds: the act of striking a fellow brother, especially without just cause. Such an action can lead to profound and lasting harm, not only to the individual struck but also to the spiritual well-being of the one who strikes.
Read MoreAs I look back on my first full week on this journey already full of surprises and self growth I want to share a lesson gleaned around the table of a wine maker in the Piedmont region, specifically the subregion of Cuneo. On that stop I met Nadia Curto, a local winemaker, with Vanessa, Brooklyn, and Lennox in toe for the day. As we sat around her table, Nadia shared stories about her uncle, Elio Altare, one of the legendary "Barolo Boys" who revolutionized Barolo wine in the Piedmont region. This encounter reminded me of a recent critique I received: “I am glad you are now excited about this ministry.” It struck a chord because, despite my genuine investment, I had not lived up to the unspoken expectations of others involved.
Read MoreIn our spiritual journey, as we have learned thus far various passions seek to distract, divert, and derail us from our spiritual path. Among these, forgetfulness and ignorance may target specific aspects of the soul—be it the incensive, desiring, or intelligent. Yet, there is one passion that casts a wider net, ensnaring the soul's entirety in its grip: listlessness. Maximus the Confessor identifies this particular passion as especially perilous because it seizes control of all the soul’s powers, rousing nearly every passion in its wake.
Read MoreIn the intricate tapestry of the human soul, the passions of the incensive power stand as fierce adversaries, challenging our peace and spiritual equilibrium. Maximus the Confessor wisely observes that these passions, characterized by anger, resentment, and aggression, are more formidable and difficult to overcome than those related to desire. Recognizing this, our Lord provides a potent antidote: the commandment of love.
Read MoreDuring this early part of my sabbatical journey, I had the profound privilege of spending time at the Fratelli Contemplativi di Gesù, a monastery renowned for its unique prayerful practice centered around tending to grapevines. They are located in the Piedmont region of Italy and have existed for hundreds of years into their hillside. This experience was not only a retreat into the serene rhythm of monastic life but also a deep spiritual immersion into the art of contemplation.
Read MoreIn the labyrinth of the human soul, passions emerge as potent forces, each tugging at different facets of our inner being. Maximus the Confessor identifies two primary categories of these passions: those that pertain to the soul’s incensive power and those that pertain to its desiring aspect. Both types of passions are ignited through our sensory experiences and flourish in the absence of love and self-control.
Read MoreIn the intricate dance of human existence, passions arise as powerful forces that can either propel us toward fulfillment or lead us astray. Maximus the Confessor distinguishes between two types of passions: those of the body and those of the soul. The body’s passions are physical cravings and impulses, while the soul’s passions are emotional and psychological desires. Both kinds of passions, he asserts, are aroused through the senses and can lead us away from our true purpose when left unchecked.
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