From Thomas Merton to Paramahansa Yogananda, from Rumi to William Blake, from Hildegard of Bingen to Joan of Arc -- the most compelling and fascinating spiritual figures in every age and every culture are the mystics, those men and women who attain enlightenment, union with God, or an on-going sense of Divine presence in their lives. How can spiritual seekers in today's world learn from the great mystics -- and perhaps even cultivate our own share of mystical awareness?
Carl McColman never set out to be a mystic; but when he was sixteen years old, an unexpected experience at a church youth camp set him on a lifelong pursuit of mystical knowledge. His quest took him to the austerities of medieval Christianity, the mental discipline of Zen Buddhism, and the earthy spirituality of shamanism and tribal religions. Along the way, he began to identify the key universal themes and practices of mysticism. This book, as a non-sectarian handbook for serious mystical seekers, presents a simple but powerful introduction to practical spirituality.
Written in a conversational and at times humorous style, the book blends personal anecdotes with stories and insights from various mystical traditions. Woven throughout the text are "practical steps" -- easy to follow suggestions of specific actions anyone seeking a mystical spirituality can do. With tips on how to study meditation, finding a supportive community, letting go of attachments and addictions, and learning to value love over extraordinary experience, the sensible advice in this book can help anyone transform their life from the mundane to the mystical.
"Anyone who is an aspiring mystic should read this book. It is a wise yet practical guide for the sacred journey into the mysteries of the soul." -- Denise Linn, author of "Sacred Space" and "Altars"
