Crossing the Desert: Learning to Let Go, See Clearly, and Live Simply

Wicks, Robert J.

ISBN 10: 1933495081 / ISBN 13: 9781933495088

Published by Sorin Books, 2007

About this Item

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Bibliographic Details

• Title: Crossing the Desert: Learning to Let Go, See Clearly, and Live Simply
• Publisher: Sorin Books
• Publication Date: 2007
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1933495081
• ISBN 13: 9781933495088
• Binding: hardcover
• Condition: Very Good

About this title

Synopsis

Robert J. Wicks, noted psychologist and best-selling author of Riding the Dragon and Everyday Simplicity, offers with an insightful guide on how the wisdom of the ancient desert monks can help contemporary readers grow in personal freedom and authenticity. Exploring the early Christian monastic movement of the Desert Fathers and Mothers through a psychological lens, Dr. Wicks uses their wisdom to guide readers towards humility and freedom. In the same way the desert sages never gave answers, but always asked questions, Crossing the Desert presents readers with the Four Desert Questions that will lead them to Take Three Steps to Inner Freedom.

Reviews

Wicks (Riding the Dragon) uses his experience as a veteran psychologist to introduce fourth-century desert wisdom to readers of all faiths. According to Wicks, the ancient desert fathers and mothers can "provide proven guidance on how to let go and live with a refreshing sense of freedom in the world." His book makes for a compelling read when he blends his understanding of the world's wisdom traditions—drawing from a variety of thinkers such as Henri Nouwen, Zen Master Joseph Goldstein and Buddhist teacher Sogyal Rinpoche—with his knowledge of human behavior. One of his great strengths is grounding abstract theological concepts in engaging stories, like when he introduces the virtue of gratitude with a tale of the "barefoot brother" he met in India, who had lived through many tragedies yet was so appreciative of Wick's presentation to the Jesuits. At points, the text tackles too much in too little space. For example, the first of the four desert questions—What am I filled with now?—includes five rather complicated ancillary questions for reflection. Still, the book is an excellent guide to the wisdom and insight of the early pilgrims who fled to the desert to better hear and live out the word of God. (Mar.)
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