Nature religions, for example, speak of summer, fall, winter, and spring. They see the downward path as the necessary prelude to any kind of upward path again. Our vocabulary is different. We Christians speak of the death and resurrection of Jesus. But unfortunately, we've projected it all onto Jesus and it didn't become a life agenda for the rest of us.
Richard RohrMuch of the work of midlife is to tell the difference between those who are dealing with their issues through you and those who are really dealing with you.
Richard RohrIn terms of soul work, we dare not get rid of the pain before we have learned what it has to teach us.
Richard RohrThe two Virtues of Equanimity and Compassion become more available to the person whose ego-shell has been smashed-either by great suffering or by great love-or by both.
Richard Rohr