Wisdom for Old Souls

by David Booram

Wisdom for Old Souls is an invitation to engage in a three-way dialogue between the human author of Ecclesiastes, God—the Eternal One, and you. Picture a round table with three chairs, or better, a crackling fire pit with three Adirondacks in a circle. As you enter the conversation, you easily identify with the raw, genuine angst expressed by this ancient author. You’re glad that someone has found language to hold these questions and conundrums. You're also grateful for its inclusion in scripture, even if at times it feels like a sacred outlier. Then, you shift your attention to the response. The Eternal One is patient with this old friend. They have journeyed for a lifetime together, so there is an easy, direct openness with one another. As you listen, you appreciate the larger and loving perspective that is shared between them. And then both turn toward you, and in quiet silence draw you out and draw you in. Drawing upon the Ignatian tradition and its regard for the imagination, this series of reflections is as tender and gentle as they are unsettling and provocative. They invite old souls, whether young or not-so-young, to read the sacred text in a Jacob-like-spirit as a wrestler—and engage with God in a more real, robust, and honest way.

137 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2023

About the author

David grew up creek stomping and geode hunting in the deep ravines of central Indiana, where he first experienced the magic of nature and learned about birds, frog-gigging, fishing, and organic gardening from his grandpa. He attended Indiana University, graduating with a BS in Religious Studies and Business Administration.

David founded Direction 4 Life Work, where he offered career counseling for 30 years to students and adults. In 2012, he co-founded Fall Creek Abbey, an urban retreat center, where he and his wife, Beth, have sought to renew the contemplative spirit through hospitality, presence, and conversation.

In addition, David companions individuals in his work as a spiritual director and trains others in the art of offering spiritual direction through the Fall Creek Abbey School of Spiritual Direction.

David describes himself as an ordinary mystic, lover of nature—especially the birds—a poet, contrarian, gardener, artist, and musician who pursues a life of gentle integrity, humor, creativity, and love.

He is the author of The Greenling, Wisdom for Old Souls, co-author of When Faith Becomes Sight and Prayers at Twilight, and creator of the popular Examen Qs and Couples Qs.

Reviews

[Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed using this book as a devotional as the author gleans wisdom from Ecclesiastes and shares it as if it was written from the Father.