The contemporary contemplative seeks spiritual awakening in the midst of everyday life: to “live in the midst of the crowd with the sweet independence of solitude.” This path may be more challenging than the traditional contemplative life. Waking up in the midst of this busy, complex, and sometimes crazy world is not easy. But then, as the Zen proverb tells us: “If you want a small enlightenment, go to the mountain; if you want a big enlightenment, go to the city!”

Robert Brumet