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Silence, Simplicity and Solitude: A Guide for Spiritual Retreat

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"Silence, Simplicity, and Solitude: A Guide for Spiritual Retreat" offers a balanced and practical perspective for those seeking refuge and renewal. The author, David A. Cooper, first discusses traditions associated with such retreats for the world's main religions.

That perspective is then applied to the practical aspects of conducting a retreat. Mr. Cooper is not advocating strident adherence to tradition, instead suggesting "The individual retreatant must decide which of his or her particular needs are important." Throughout this section, he draws from the wisdom and practices of the various religions, weaving common threads and ideas.

A third main section of the book addresses various spiritual practices and notes how these might fit within the scope of a retreat. Again, drawing from the text, Mr. Cooper asks "how is it that each of us has an affinity with some practices and not others?" He addresses that question by providing overviews and observations of 13 spiritual practices.

Mr. Cooper also emphasizes the practical by providing a number of sample schedules tailored for various types of retreats and a recommended reading list. His steadfast focus on the inner and outer aspects of staging a retreat addresses the needs of both the spirit seeking solace or enlightenment and the mind arranging the details and schedules.