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Emerson As Spiritual Guide: A Companion to Emerson's Essays for Personal Reflection and Group Discussion
Though we may debate whether Ralph Waldo Emerson is primarily a poet, an essayist or a philosopher, for Barry Andrews, he is above all a spiritual teacher. His fiery genius ignited not only Thoreau but also Whitman, Fuller and many others. Andrews' commentary shows a new generation of Americans how Emerson's spiritual journey joined an open heart with a critical mind. This will appeal to readers who consider themselves spiritual though not necessarily religious. Andrews guides readers through the spiritual writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson. Includes an introduction to the life and thought of Emerson, as well as questions and resources for further study and reflection. "I believe Emerson is best understood as a spiritual guide and a spokesperson for an alternative American spiritual tradition. I have tried to make his message accessible and relevant to contemporary religious seekers." --Barry M. Andrews
142 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2003
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May 28, 2018
Author Barry M. Andrews acknowledges most readers know Ralph Waldo Emerson as "the quintessential American philosopher," and "the master of aphorism;" yet, Andrews defines Emerson as a deep and profound spiritual writer who will stimulate and enrich the spiritual life of anyone who considers what he has to say.
I have read this book slowly over the last several months, often struggling with Emerson's language, and often disagreeing with him. Yet, I find myself thinking about some of his beliefs long after I turned the last page, and I have even gone back to reread passages. I have concluded that quibbling about his language is irrelevant (consider words such as "over-soul"..."genius"..."self-reliance.") I think the secret is to find what is useful or important to me and what I have held on to beyond that last page. So here goes...
"Our faith comes in moments; our vice is habitual. Yet there is more depth in these brief moments which constrains us to ascribe more reality to them than all other experiences." I love this idea, acknowledging the power of those moments of great joy, perfect bliss that sustain our personal faith.
Emerson believed in the importance of self-trust, nurturing the soul, and courage, the courage to endure the disapproval of those who espouse conformity. Part of this is the paradox that to save one's life, one must let go.
He believed every person is called to a vocation, a purpose in life.
He saw the need to strike a balance between insight and intellect, advocating a combination of "plain living and high thinking."
He urged his followers to make the best use of one's time, to savor the moment, to "be thankful for small mercies."
He believed all things - ideas, institutions, and inventions - are in a state of flux. Spiritual transformation is a continual, evolving process so he urged people to be open to the possibilities of what is new, and embrace it when it comes. "Life is a series of surprises."
He raised provocative questions: What does it mean to be moral? Can we be moral without being religious in the traditional sense? In what way is work a spiritual issue? He believed in work without seeking reward.
Finally, he recommended one keep a journal, practice contemplation, and cultivate an appreciation of nature.
Perhaps more than any other time in my life, it is important to live a life of moral integrity. Reading Emerson's timeless thoughts reminds me to "rely on honesty and truth," that the qualities that we value in human life, love, humility, and faith, are embedded in the universe around me.
I have read this book slowly over the last several months, often struggling with Emerson's language, and often disagreeing with him. Yet, I find myself thinking about some of his beliefs long after I turned the last page, and I have even gone back to reread passages. I have concluded that quibbling about his language is irrelevant (consider words such as "over-soul"..."genius"..."self-reliance.") I think the secret is to find what is useful or important to me and what I have held on to beyond that last page. So here goes...
"Our faith comes in moments; our vice is habitual. Yet there is more depth in these brief moments which constrains us to ascribe more reality to them than all other experiences." I love this idea, acknowledging the power of those moments of great joy, perfect bliss that sustain our personal faith.
Emerson believed in the importance of self-trust, nurturing the soul, and courage, the courage to endure the disapproval of those who espouse conformity. Part of this is the paradox that to save one's life, one must let go.
He believed every person is called to a vocation, a purpose in life.
He saw the need to strike a balance between insight and intellect, advocating a combination of "plain living and high thinking."
He urged his followers to make the best use of one's time, to savor the moment, to "be thankful for small mercies."
He believed all things - ideas, institutions, and inventions - are in a state of flux. Spiritual transformation is a continual, evolving process so he urged people to be open to the possibilities of what is new, and embrace it when it comes. "Life is a series of surprises."
He raised provocative questions: What does it mean to be moral? Can we be moral without being religious in the traditional sense? In what way is work a spiritual issue? He believed in work without seeking reward.
Finally, he recommended one keep a journal, practice contemplation, and cultivate an appreciation of nature.
Perhaps more than any other time in my life, it is important to live a life of moral integrity. Reading Emerson's timeless thoughts reminds me to "rely on honesty and truth," that the qualities that we value in human life, love, humility, and faith, are embedded in the universe around me.
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