For someone like me who consumes too many detective novels as distraction, this was a palate cleanser, turning the eye inward to the essential goodness in us all. This is in the tradition of Brain MacLaren, Shane Claiborne, Ken Wilbur, even Thich Nhat Hahn. If you are dubious of Christian scripture, Rohr uses it as part of world wisdom tradition, not literalist text – all without being unorthodox for traditional Christians – quite a feat,
This is best read in the context of two other of Rohr’s newer books, The Naked Now and especially Falling Upward (also available on Audible). The three books form a culmination of a spiritual master’s teaching. Rohr has been speaking (and thinking) widely and in audio since at least the mid 70s. Situate this in the emerging church tradition, and even deep ecumenism.
Are the not-so-positive reviewers right or wrong? Rohr’s wise saying applies: “It’s not either-or but both also.” Other reviewers make good points. If read carefully, however, this is not a feel-good new agey uplift. It comes from a particular tradition but speaks to many traditions, including Jungian. The richness of this diamond may not be apparent if it’s your first glance at Rohr.
Rohr does use Christian scripture quite frequently in this book, and there are probably two solid reasons for this. Spiritual teachers such as Thich Nhat Hahn use their own traditions most frequently because that is the authentic way to proceed. Despite Rohr’s criticism of the narrowness of much of contemporary Christianity and Catholicism, Rohr has not turned his back on the tradition that formed him –either the parts useful for the tasks of the “First part of life“ or the more mystical veins that speak to the tasks of the second half. Rohr has amply demonstrated his roots in deep ecumenism in the body of his work. A second reason for the grounding in Christian scripture here may be that Rohr is often criticized by those in his own tradition –especially literalist Catholics – so perhaps he is trying to situate his teaching as orthodox to that audience also.
As for narration, it is better than average for nonfiction, but I am among those who love Rohr so much that I would prefer his reading, If you are considering another Rohr download. He is a teacher-preacher-synthesizer of ideas, and his recorded live talks are FANTASTIC – his reading however (and even someone else reading him), is probably enjoyed by those who already love him. Try one of his more recent live talks – several of which are available on Audible – and many more directly from his Center for Action and Contemplation.