In getting 2018 off on the right foot, I followed some advice from a new book. It said: “Seek direction from wisdom figures.”
The wise author, Joan Chittister, has been a role model of mine for more than a decade. As always, I found comfort and hope in her words.
Joan is a Benedictine nun and one of our most beloved humanitarians and social activists. You may have seen her on Oprah’s Super Soul Sunday or read some of her more than 50 books.
To help you jump-start your year, I am honored to introduce you to our January Book to Live By:
Radical Spirit: 12 Ways to Live a Free and Authentic Life by Joan Chittister
As the subtitle suggests, this is a guide to breaking the chains of what Sister Joan calls “the nagging hungers of the self” — such spiritual assailants as fear, anger and addiction.
The book is based on the teachings of Saint Benedict, a sixth-century Italian known as the founder of Western monasticism. The key to freedom, we learn, is humility.
Saint Benedict’s 12 steps of humility include such simple but savvy lessons as “Endure the pains of development and do not give up,” “Acknowledge faults and strip away the masks,” “Listen” and “Speak kindly.”
Sister Joan takes tales and events from around the world and weaves them with her own life stories to illustrate each step. She mixes her insights with a large dose of humor.
Radical Spirit offers a peaceful, practical remedy to the stresses of modern life while acknowledging its daily challenges.
I love this book and will reflect on its many inspirations over and over throughout the year.
Wishing you a radically spirited 2018!
