Simplicity: The Freedom of Letting Go

I have been reading about Simplicity for a little over a year and have found that practicing Simplicity truly enriches your life. This book has to be one of the best books I have read on Simplicity! Richard Rohr is right on target when he speaks about simplicity and the condition of America...and when he addresses the church in America! I found this book to be very thought provoking, eye-opening, and this is quite a powerful book. This book also got me interested in the life and practice of Saint Francis, which lead me into other wonderful books. Richard Rohr is awesome and I was truly blessed by this book. I think people who are truly on the spiritual path tend to be lead into Simplicity and this book will truly be beneficial to all seekers of truth!

I have read this book twice so far and made a lot of notes in the margins. I will return to it many times, especially when my life feels out of balance.

Fr. Richard Rohr is a leading voice in the contemplative church. This book is basically about letting go of ego and the false self - the self that we create in our youth to help us formulate the methods we use to deal with whatever life throws at us. He is convinced that by letting go of this early self, we will grow in compassion and the ability to forgive. The end result will be that we see the needs around us and will reach out to those who are in need. He has been heavily influenced by Liberation Theology and makes a good case for it. Most of us are blinded by our circumstances; and Fr. Rohr challenges us to get a new and simpler perspective. I would recommend this book for anyone who feels that God is asking them to examine their lives in relation to the needs of the homeless and the poverty-sticken.

Richard Rohr speaks with the heart of Francis of Assisi. He builds a strong case for activism at all levels, reminding us that Jesus himself was an activist. The major premise of this book is that, without a commitment to what the Quakers call the "right sharing of resources", churches are behaving more like social clubs than true Christians. Rohr shares a bit about himself and the life experiences that led him to his interpretation of scripture. He speaks with the wisdom of one who has traveled the world and has seen the face of Christ on every continent. A wonderful read and too soon over!

A guiding light in my faith in God and the gifts of this earth. A book to begin unraveling thinking that does not serve me. I’m starting on several of his books and the first read through The Universal Christ. He’s very deep and books require thoughtful reading.

Richard Rohr certainly is among my five favorite Christian authors. Rohr is a priest, a preacher and a member of the Franciscan Order (OFM) within the Roman Catholic Church. He is both priceless and refreshing because he in a direct, forceful and honest way -- speaks the truth as he sees it. He doesn't view the Church as perfect, certainly not all its leaders. He is a consistent critic of the present capitalistic economic system. And, he points out the failings in socialism. Although this book is entitled "Simplicity." only the last chapter really is devoted to that subject consistently. Apparently the book is based on a series of talks Rohr gave in Germany and Switzerland in the late eighties. The varioius chapters range from Christians being active in transforming society, to women's place in the church, to how the Church needs to save itself. An example of speaking plainly, clearly and directly: "Chrisitian nations are among the greediest and the most intent on security of any in the world, while they maintain that Jesus is their Lord and their security."

Excellent information for the beginner on a life of simplicity. In case you're wondering, that's all of us! I plan to share my copy with one of my spiritual directees.

This is a beautiful book. Richard Rohr is a very lovely writer. His style is insightful, and deep, soul diving, yet simple and very concise. I read this book in small doses, chewing and savoring every moment. It changed my life, breaking down my false pretenses and turning my heart inward to confront some walls I had made and turn them in to bridges.

Easy to understand - but still deeply spiritual and a book to help us live life simply though our lives in reality may ber complicated.

This is a book I will re-read again and again .Thank you Richard Rohr. Your authentic walk with Christ will live on in and through your “Action & Contemplation”

I found this book beautiful,Helpful and uplifting, The writing of this man has enriched my life. I would recommend it to like-minded friends

Sorry that this is not a normal review since it was a replacement copy for one that has been worn out. That should tell you 2 things - firstly, the book is awesome . Richard Rohr does a masterful job of telling it "like it really is". Secondly, we ordered 2 copies, both in pleasing 'brand new' shape - one will be a gift for a special friend. Thanks as always for your great quality merchandise and excellent delivery times and costs. Yours truly, Jim

E asy reading and informative