Monk Mindset
Posts
Let Go of Good for Better

Let Go of Good for Better

When Dominic, the 12th century founder of the Dominicans was a young man, he sold...

July 07, 2025

Peace to you!

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

When Dominic, the 12th century founder of the Dominicans was a young man, he sold his treasured books to have more to give the poor during a time of famine. This quote refers to “dead skins” because, at the time, books were often written on animal hides. In letting go of something he valued for an even better good - helping to feed starving people – Dominic was stretched toward a deeper charity and self-gift.

Dominic chose to live simply—walking everywhere, relying on the generosity of others for food, and wearing plain clothes. Because he wasn’t attached to comfort or luxury, he could go wherever he was needed, ready to help almost anyone when it’s needed.

St. Dominic discovered in this journey that when we’re not weighed down by possessions, status, or even our own plans, we become free to love and serve others wholeheartedly.

This attitude gave him a deep sense of peace. He didn’t really get upset by criticism, tough times, or even danger, because his happiness didn’t depend on outside circumstances.

Sometimes in life we have the opportunity to choose between different goods – two things that are both good, but one of the options may be more charitable, requiring giving more of ourselves for others.

What are equivalent sacrifices for us today? Here are a few hypothetical examples to jog your consideration:

Scroll social media or catch up with a friend or family
Buy something extra for ourselves that we don't really need or dedicate the money to a family charity fund
Spend extra time at work or take care of an extra chore for the family

Some of these examples may be more clear than others what is the best option. But, In practical terms, detachment doesn’t mean giving up everything we enjoy. Instead, it means using what we have wisely and not letting our happiness depend on things, comfort, or what others think.

When we’re not ruled by selfishness or anxiety, we become free to be generous, loving, and at peace.

Put It Into Practice This Week

Right now, think of something you feel like you need – your phone, a certain food, drink, pleasure, or another material possession.

Imagine for a moment that this thing is taken away from you.

What do you feel? What’s running through your mind?

In your own way, I challenge you to say a prayer to be free from this object.

Seek an opportunity this week to give this thing up – just to see how it feels. Offer a specific intention for this sacrifice (dedicate the time, money, or just a prayer to something or someone outside of yourself).

Monk Mindset Video Drop

Day In the Life of a Capuchin Friar

Ever curious what a day in the life of Capuchin Friar is like? Check out the latest Monk Mindset on YouTube to see!