Friday, September 05, 2008

The real cure for burn-out

I had the great privilege to hear Br. David speak at an interfaith conference in Virginia back in the 70s. He's long been an inspiration to me in the contemplative life:

You are like Rilke's Swan in his awkward waddling across the ground; the swan doesn't cure his awkwardness by beating himself on the back, by moving faster, or by trying to organize himself better. He does it by moving toward the elemental water where he belongs. It is the simple contact with the water that gives him grace and presence. You only have to touch the elemental waters in your own life, and it will transform everything.

-- Br. David Steindl-Rast

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