Book Review: Yes, And… by Richard Rohr
As an avid reader with a keen interest in spiritual literature, I was drawn to Yes, And… by Richard Rohr after hearing glowing recommendations from fellow seekers of wisdom. With its promise of meditations and prayers for every day of the year, I hoped this book would provide me with daily inspiration and deeper insights into my Christian faith. Richard Rohr, a world-renowned spiritual teacher, is known for his ability to make profound theological concepts accessible. I was eager to see how he would guide readers on their spiritual journeys through thoughtful excerpts from his extensive body of work.
Right from the start, Yes, And… captivated me with its approach to spirituality that feels refreshingly open-minded. The book is structured around seven spiritual themes that guide the reader toward a more profound understanding of faith. Rohr emphasizes that if God is the Trinity and Jesus embodies that essence, then we inhabit a benevolent universe—a notion that invites the reader to explore their spirituality without fear (a concept I found echoed by others like Susan Howell in her review).
Among the positives, one of the most illuminating aspects is Rohr’s ability to blend personal experience with scripture, suggesting that our spiritual beliefs should evolve through both tradition and individual encounters with the Divine. His affirmation that “everything belongs, and no one needs to be scapegoated or excluded” resonated deeply with my own views on religion. Moreover, the gentle challenge to confront our shadow selves, rather than deny them, provided a refreshing twist on self-reflection. I felt encouraged to engage with my complexities instead of succumbing to guilt, a sentiment mirrored by John C. Van Nuys, who described the book as a pivotal resource for his spiritual growth.
However, I did encounter some drawbacks during my reading. One notable issue was the book’s structure; while I appreciated the thematic organization, I agree with several reviewers who pointed out that a daily reading format might have been more straightforward. Ted Johnston aptly noted that the meditations require time for contemplation; they aren’t something you can rush through. I found myself returning to passages multiple times, which, while enriching, sometimes felt cumbersome. This is indeed a book for slow, thoughtful engagement and may not suit those looking for quick spiritual bites.
Additionally, for readers unfamiliar with Rohr’s contemplative approach, it could be a bit daunting. As John highlighted, some foundational understanding of his earlier works or perspectives would enhance the experience, which may leave newcomers feeling a bit lost. I personally recommend stepping into Yes, And… after familiarizing oneself with his previous writings or accessible online resources, like his YouTube talks.
While the book offers many profound insights, the lack of a clear daily structure as mentioned above might turn off those hoping for a straightforward daily meditation guide. However, if you approach it with the intention of savoring each meditation—integrating it into your contemplative practice—it turns into a feast for the soul, as described by Dorothy McCabe.
In terms of writing style, Rohr’s prose flows gracefully, making complex ideas feel welcoming rather than intimidating. Each meditation is indeed a treasure of brief spiritual treatises, inviting readers to explore their faith in a non-dogmatic manner. His capacity to dissect religious dualities and point towards unities offers not only comfort but a transformative lens through which to view one’s relationship with God and others.
In conclusion, Yes, And… is an uplifting and expansive guide for those on a spiritual quest. It invites readers to explore their faith in an inclusive and compassionate way. Despite some organizational drawbacks that might make daily integration challenging, the meditations provide rich, evocative material for reflection and personal growth. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of spirituality—it’s an enlightening companion for both new and seasoned seekers alike. Overall, I left feeling more connected to both the Divine and my spiritual path, and I am eager to revisit its meditations regularly.
Discover the transformative power of daily mindfulness with “Yes, and…: Daily Meditations.” >>