I remember feeling as though all the big questions had been answered. There I was, a confident young man coming of age at the end of the Cold War. Politicians assured me the economic struggles of the past were a distant memory and that the burgeoning Internet would provide prosperity for all. And, as a child, I was taught our country had heard and answered the call for racial justice and gender equity before I was even born.

I made my rites in 2004 at Ghost Ranch, and at Richard Rohr and Stephen Picha’s request (Stephen was the former executive director of the Center for Action and Contemplation and M.A.L.Es coordinator). I returned the next 2 years as a team member who did the Grief Talk on Day 3. It was both a formative and transformative experience for me. More on that a bit later but first some further background.

When it comes to contemplative prayer, I am merely just a beginner. After being introduced to it only a few years ago, I still have much to learn (and unlearn). Even though few if any words are uttered, the practicing of this type of prayer is difficult. I think in part it's because of the challenge it is to stay in the moment, dismissing everything else, so we can “be” in God’s presence…