Publisher’s Weekly Review:

"The Rule of St. Benedict arose from an era when a great civilization was threatened by violence, economic forces that favored the wealthy, political leaders that lacked the trust of the public, and rampant xenophobia. Similar to the anxieties and frustrations of the 6th century, we are living in a time where societies need to stress community over competition, consensus over conflict, simplicity over self gain, and silence over the constant chatter and distractions of our lives.

In How to Live, Judith Valente explores the key elements of the rule and clearly demonstrates how incorporating this ancient wisdom can change the quality and texture of our lives offering a way forward from the divisions gripping our country. These fresh and profound explorations are inspiring and thoughtful, and will motivate readers to live a meaningful life."

In the morning God will give you back your soul freshly mended and laundered"--Anna Kamienska, #poem "Conscience"

Countless lines and poems in this collection that will make you pause, full of light and a bright spirit

Anna Kamienska (1920-1986) was a major Polish writer and a recognized peer of the Nobel Prize winners Wislawa Szymborska and Czeslaz Milosz. She left a rich legacy of twenty books of poetry, two volumes of Notebooks (a short-hand record of her readings and self-questioning), two volumes of commentaries on the Bible, and other writings and translations.

Written by three authors: Brother Paul Quenon is a Trappist monk of the Abbey of Gethsemane who studied under the great spiritual writer, Thomas Merton. Michael Bever is a retired educator, a doctor of theology and an ordained Disciples of Christ minister who was drawn later in life to Catholic traditions. Judy Valente is a long time friend of #SpiritualBookClub, she's a broadcast journalist who covers religion news for PBS-TV and the author of two poetry collections and a book, "Atchison Blue," on contemporary monastic life. As a retreat leader, she helps busy professionals slow down, find more balance, and tap into the transcendence of the everyday. As a writer, she's amazing.

Looking forward to reading Sally Quinn's new memoir about her spiritual journey.
Sally, a reporter, has been very involved with the Washington Post's faith section "On Faith" for years and now is OnFaith Founding Editor & Advisory Board Member
onfaith.co