Silent Presence

Until recently, discernment has not been a high priority among Catholics. We have lived off rules of thumb in doctrine and practice, preferring assembly line religion to a personal and custom-made response to God from deep within our own lives. Contemplation and personal discernment are recognized today as normal developments in the spiritual life. Contemplation and discernment deal directly with the mysterious, incomprehensible God who appears among us and is experienced in himself (in contemplation) or in a given human situation (in discernment). Discernment asks us to be contempla­tives in action, in our human choices, finding the same God outside whom we discover in silent prayer. The challenge of identifying that Presence in such a way as to interpret the course of action we should take is a formidable one. This book begins a theology of discernment by reviewing the traditional theory that has come down to us from Scripture and the Fathers of the Desert. Seeing this body of teaching in its simplest lines, using the form as presented to us by Ignatius of Loyola, will provide a framework in which to critique the process in the light of present perspectives.

This book is especially aimed at practitioners of Bhakti yoga who perform “Japa” mantra meditation on the holy names of God, but for one reason or another have not experienced the inner transformation they were expecting. The admission that I am not happy when chanting, or even worse, chanting is drudgery I have to do, can be a painfully shocking thing to admit to oneself and others. It takes honesty and courage to acknowledge that you have not yet realized the truth about yourself and continue to feel dissatisfied and unhappy with your life of chanting. If you find yourself described here in these words, then this book is for you.

The Silent Soul presents a unique way of looking into a very different realm than the one we typically inhabit. It describes a pathway into the hidden realm of non-form that exists within each of us (our vast inner universe), and does so in a way that is easily accessible. It describes in a straightforward manner how to gain access to the elusive Stillness within and how we can find the Divine in the process. It unpacks how we find this magical path of discovery and how it can change our lives in a very tangible way, resulting in the soul’s impending transformation from caterpillar into butterfly.

The Silent Places is a novel by Stewart Edward White. White was an American author, novelist, and mystic, here depicting a story with a manly trail scout and the silence of the woods as protagonists. Excerpt: "Beyond the black velvet band lay the wilderness. There was the trackless country, large as the United States itself, with its great forests, its unmapped bodies of water, its plains, its barren grounds, its mountains, its water courses wider even than the Hudson River. Moose and bear, true lords of the forest, he might see any summer day. Herds of caribou, sometimes thousands strong, roamed its woodlands and barrens. Wolves, lurking or bold as their prey was strong or weak, clung to the caribou bands in hope of a victim. Wolverines,—unchanged in form from another geological period—marten, mink, fisher, otter, ermine, muskrat, lynx, foxes, beaver carried on their varied affairs of murder or of peaceful industry. Woods Indians, scarcely less keen of sense or natural of life than the animals, dwelt in their wigwams of bark or skins, trapped and fished, made their long migrations as the geese turn following their instinct. Sun, shadow, rain, cold, snow, hunger, plenty, labour, or the peaceful gliding of rivers, these had watched by the Long Trail in the years Sam Bolton had followed it. He sensed them now dimly, instinctively, waiting by the Trail he was called upon to follow."

In a world filled with noise and chaos, there exists a subtle yet potent force – quiet confidence. This book, "Silent Strength: The Power of Quiet Confidence," delves into the transformative power of quiet confidence and offers practical insights for cultivating it within ourselves. Quiet confidence is not about boasting or seeking validation from others. Instead, it is about finding inner peace and authenticity amidst the chaos of daily life, trusting in oneself and one's abilities, and navigating the world with grace and integrity. It is the silent force that guides us through life's challenges and triumphs, inspiring trust and respect in others, and leaving a lasting impact on those we encounter along the way. This eBook explores the characteristics of quiet confidence and its profound impact on personal and professional success. Through anecdotes, examples, and practical exercises, readers will learn how to cultivate quiet confidence within themselves, navigate life's challenges with resilience and poise, and inspire trust and respect in others. Readers will discover: 1. The essence of quiet confidence: Explore the characteristics of quiet confidence and how it differs from overt displays of confidence. Learn how quiet confidence emanates from a strong sense of self-assurance and authenticity, guiding individuals with grace and poise as they navigate life's complexities. 2. Practical strategies for cultivating quiet confidence: Discover practical tips and exercises for developing quiet confidence, including self-affirmations, goal setting, mindfulness practices, and self-reflection. Learn how to challenge negative self-talk, step out of your comfort zone, and embrace your true self with authenticity and humility. 3. The impact of quiet confidence: Hear inspiring anecdotes and examples of individuals who embody quiet confidence and the transformative impact it has on their lives and the lives of others. Explore how quiet confidence contributes to personal and professional success, fostering resilience, self-assurance, and authentic connections with others. 4. Embracing silent strength: Learn how to recognize and celebrate silent strength in yourself and others, acknowledging the quiet heroes who quietly make a difference in our lives. Discover the power of silent strength to create positive change in the world and inspire others to embrace their own unique gifts and talents. Whether you're seeking to navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience, inspire trust and respect in others, or cultivate a deeper sense of authenticity and self-assurance, "Silent Strength: The Power of Quiet Confidence" is your guide to embracing the transformative power of quiet confidence and living a life of purpose, passion, and integrity.