It’s always good to hear what you have to share. I’m nodding in agreement with you and I acknowledge the breadth of your insight. “If God is One, Truth is One.” (1) Only a fool would dip a bucket into the sea, then claim to possess the ocean.

God’s Peace.
Steve
(1) I don’t remember who said this, but it wasn’t me!

Hello,
I came upon this blog post of yours today and wanted to comment but couldn’t see how. Perhaps you are only taking comments on your forum now.

This article interested me because of the idea that it is the moment when we are gliding (not rowing) from whence inspiration gesticulates. And I loved this line in particular:

“I quickly realized that what I most despise about the state of my wandering mind is that it’s completely opposite of what I have determined to be superior.”

I feel that pride in my efforts and assume I need to try and try and try again, when really it is in the NOT trying, the surrender, that the magic takes place.

Thanks for the thoughtful piece.
Rebecca

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Thanks Rebecca,

My posts are configured to accept comments for 14 days. Normally I find that is plenty of time for comments and if there is a discussion to be had I would much rather have it opened in the forums, which are in real time…

You nailed it with one word “surrender!” Thanks for the comment.

Pax Vobiscum
C.M.Gregory

I couldn’t help but smile as I read your description of “God logic,” as I see myself there, praying for transcendence, while I also see so many in the church there, unaware of it. Your description of this “unlearning” (or, as I’ve called it, “debrainwashing”) process is so clear for its end point as questioning everything and finding oneself in “a place of absolute self humility.” What grace it is then when we’re blessed with the mystical, be it through “experiences” in a dramatic sense, or in the everyday sense (sitting in awe while observing a leaf, listening to the river and breathing in its peace, or gazing at the stars), or in the natural sense you describe as applying Christ’s teaching in our lives.

A “suspension of faculties”: hmmm, interesting. I hadn’t recalled this notion from the fifth chamber of St. Teresa’s castle, as I had been contemplating her point within this chamber of maintaining community within one’s prayer life. But what a beautiful description it is in contrast to “God logic.” Thank you for illuminating a path out of these shadows of conventional thought.

Blessings,
Karina

I am attracted to your idea of “mystical experience” as process. When thought of in that respect, one can avoid the problems associated with “momentary” glimpses of the Divine along the spiritual path. Personally, I believe these experiences are like people climbing out of a dark hole and finally glimpsing the sunlight, only to crawl back in the same hole.

Obviously, St. Theresa was no stranger to these experiences, as well as ecstasies, but she was careful to spend abundant time discerning their validity. As her “Interior Castle” points out, it was the progression of the soul toward God that was of primary importance. And, in her writings, she clearly noted the conditions of growth required.
Among them, obedience, humility, detachment, and prayer in solitude. You mention many of her “conditions” in your post.

From my reading of and about her she also seems to be a big believer in determination and discipline along the spiritual path. I’m afraid these are two “d” words we often choose to avoid these days, and yet, Theresa saw them as extremely important for God’s work to be done.

This was a wonderful post, Gregory. I thorougly enjoyed reading it.

Steve