An Altar In The World: A Geography Of Faith (2009) - Plot & Excerpts
I had this book on my "to read" list for it seems like forever. I am so glad I finally sat down with it. I thoroughly enjoyed the twelve different chapters on ways to enhance your spiritual experience grounded in everyday life. These practices are very doable, even in the midst of a hectic, busy life. You just need to pay attention to what is inside and around you. The chapters can be read in order or at random. You can skip around to see what speaks to you. She asserts that "all of life is holy and every activity harbors an opportunity to meet God." In other words, you don't need the four walls of a church or a minister's guidance to find what is sacred in this life. I started this book while on a personal retreat. Finishing it in the following weeks maintained the glow of that retreat. Taylor writes beautifully, and while I may not agree 100% with her, she challenges and deepens my faith.In this book, she focuses on everyday ways of practicing one's faith.My favorite chapter was on physical labor--the holiness of housework, if you will.Others include the practice of saying no (the Sabbath), the practice of paying attention (reverence). And she has some unexpected chapters, such as the practice of getting lost (wilderness)--that takes me out of my comfort zone. I use a combo of GPS and MapQuest.Then there is the practice of feeling pain. Pain, according to Taylor, happens in the flesh, while suffering happens in the mind. I will return to this chapter with my next migraine.
What do You think about An Altar In The World: A Geography Of Faith (2009)?
This was an excellent read. It may be the first book ever that I read a second time.
—Kayla
Well written book about finding God and spiritual practice in everyday living.
—Natalie
This book gave me do much to think about. One I will definitely read again.
—email0089
