Thomas Merton's spiritual autobiography, one of the most influential religious works of the twentieth century.

the rule of st. benedicthas for centuries been the guide of religious communities. St. Benedict's rules of obedience, humility, and contemplation are not only prerequisites for formal religious societies, they also provide an invaluable model for anyone desiring to live more simply.

There are many online versions of The Rule of St. Benedict, including Daily Reading from the osb.org web site.

Used copies are available

The author interviews 10 men affiliated with the Abbey of Our Lady of New Clairvaux in Vina, California. Brother Paul Bernard talks about how he has learned to feel close to God both in prayer and on the job. "We're just as close to him now as I would be in church. So yeah, you don't want to box it up and say, 'Well now, when I go to church I pray, and I'm getting in touch with God.' No! He's as close here as he is there."