Peace to you!

After attending Oxford and Harvard and working in investment banking, I had a spiritual experience that led me to leave the path of success to live in monasteries for over 7 years.

Through this newsletter, I share practical wisdom from my experience in the monastery. I hope it’s fruitful for your journey!

Each week, the Monk Mindset newsletter comes with:

Monk Mindset for Living Well

Monk Mindset 6
Seek Nothing to Find Everything: Detachment

Reflection on the Monk Mindset and Quote

One day, I came home from work and in the walkway outside, I saw a small bird frantically and helplessly flapping its wings. It took me a while to comprehend what was happening. But eventually I saw that a thin plastic cord from a construction site had wrapped around its ankle, holding it down. I went inside, got some scissors, liberated the bird, and it flew off. 

We all have strings that keep us from flying to the divine union that is our authentic destiny. These are the addictions, destructive habits, and attachments that limit our capacity for giving ourselves more radically to others – and to God, in love. 

John of the Cross, in this quote, points out the hard reality that even the slightest attachments can keep us from flying. 

Just like the bird at my house that needed help to be freed, we too need help to find freedom. Ask for it and we will receive it. God wants us to be free to fly to Him. 

Put It Into Practice This Week

What is one addiction, destructive habit, or attachment that, deep in your heart, you know keeps you from loving others or God well? It’s ok, we all have them. So, name it.

Close your eyes right now, and for just 20 seconds, ask for help in letting go of that which holds you back. And trust that you will be heard and answered.  

Wishing you abundant peace this week,

John

Enjoying Monk Mindset newsletter?

Share this link with someone who can benefit!

monkmindset.com