Out of Solitude: Three Meditations on the Christian Life

During my fast, and contemplation, times and again, I'm drawn to this little book. It is a great book. This little book slowly, bit by bit, through 3 meditations on Christ, directs my mind from the "secular world" to Christ. It draws me to silence, to face myself, to God, and to caring for others and hope for the future. It takes me to a journey and after that, I am filled with constance and strength.

Outstanding work. This book will cause you to stop and look at your relationship with Christ. Nouwen's words will touch you deeply in your inner man.

This book spoke deeply to me. As a parent with young children, I have often felt guilty for needing "my space." Nouwen removes my feelings of guilt and selfishness by explaining this need for time alone as being a spiritual need where growth and connection with God are possible. Contains few pages, but a big message.

Without getting the reader distracted by or caught up within his own life and story the author concisely brings us back to a spiritual balance with God.

It is one of Nouwen's finest works and one I frequently givemy business clients who are struggling with success driven life stylesand non-caring work environments. I am an older (64) counseling/industrial/ organizational psychologist and currently specialize is exceutive coaching. Books like this help me create and sustain the most fulfilling work I have ever done. The book is simply three short mediations on solitude, action and community. I have read it many times, given it to my children and family, and highly recommend it to all who need to pause in the midst of life to focus on what their life is all about. I will use it this year at a retreat for men in April.A few other books I currently recommend to clients and friends along with Out of Solitude are: Let Your Life Speak by Parker Palmer; The Power of Now by Ekhart Tolle; and Stopping by David Kundtz. Nouwen was a gifted priest, healer, and shining light of faith, hope and love in a time of confusing worldwide transitions. He will be missed and he left a great legacy.