[easyazon-image align=”left” asin=”1118303598″ locale=”us” height=”110″ src=”http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51Y9Oq9eiML._SL110_.jpg” width=”79″]Page 2: Richard Rohr – Immortal Diamond
Chapters 5 through 9 take a “participatory turn,” putting the emphasis on concrete practices, personal disciplines and interactive dialogues, but not in the sense of mechanical exercises. These chapters emphasize one’s personal experience in encountering one’s False Self and one’s movement toward the True Self. Rohr embraces the universal “If It Is True, It Is True Everywhere,” the inclusive experiences of humankind, while maintaining his Christian faith perspective. The chapter on death and dying, attachment and detachment, leads the reader beyond one’s self into the core value of Franciscans, that of intimacy “as our capacity for closeness and tenderness toward (all) things.” Rohr concludes his book in words that ring loud and clear that “Love Is Stronger Than Death” as “love (becomes) in this unique form called me.” (177).
The author writes “for secular seekers and thinkers, believers and nonbelievers alike, and that huge disillusioned group in recovery from religion itself.” (XVII) Here is a large and broad group of readers indeed. In my opinion, he succeeds in his purpose. He provides strong spiritual substance for those who identify themselves as Spiritual But Not Religious.
Rohr’s writing style at first confused me. A linear style of writing works best for me, that having one thought after another with each one building upon the previous thought. Not for Rohr: he writes in what he calls a “peripatetic method” modeled after Plato’s style of thinking, of walking around a topic until the topic is clarified: think of a wagon wheel held together by the hub (of a thought) around which the wheel turns; the circumference of the wheel provides different, always turning, perspectives of what is going on with the hub; with the entry point to the hub being the spokes of the wheel as it turns.
In a special gift to the reader, Rohr generously quotes from the church Fathers and Mothers, and the spiritual saints of the church to underscore the point he makes and to move his argument farther along. He also refers the reader to his own published books for a more thorough explanation of his thought. Clearly, Immortal Diamond develops Rohr’s writing of spiritual development. This book begs the question of what Rohr’s next book will be about. I would look forward for a continued reflection on intimacy and resurrection in the last stages of life.
This is not an easy book to read and digest. There is much to ponder, like a cow chewing her cud to get the most value out of what she is eating. There is a great reward for anyone willing to do likewise. The world needs more “diamonds.” Treat yourself to this new book by Richard Rohr. Better yet, buy another copy for a dear friend.
C. Christopher Smith is the founding editor of The Englewood Review of Books. He is also author of a number of books, including most recently How the Body of Christ Talks: Recovering the Practice of Conversation in the Church (Brazos Press, 2019). Connect with him online at: C-Christopher-Smith.com
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Good review! I would love a copy of the book.
Can’t wait to read it!