You might be a little surprised to learn there is a Mrs. Strategic Monk, since monks are not usually in the habit of getting married (pun intended).
Greg and I first met years ago, and were married before he became an Oblate at New Camaldoli or the Strategic Monk. I was eager to write this guest post for Greg while he is spending the weekend in California’s Gold Country, giving a presentation on brewing during the Gold Rush.
I wanted an opportunity to share some of the wisdom I have gained in nine years of marriage to the Strategic Monk.
I share Greg’s attraction to liturgical worship. While Greg is an extrovert who is contemplative, I am an introvert and am not particularly contemplative. Greg is drawn to contemplative practices, while I start to go a little crazy if I try Centering Prayer for more than a few minutes.
I was given excellent advice by the very wise, contemplative Episcopal priest who did our wedding. He told me that I did not need to feel pressure to be contemplative in order to try and match Greg’s interests and activities. I need to be myself, free to read while Greg does Centering Prayer. I can give him time and space to facilitate reflection days, be a spiritual director, and take retreats at New Camaldoli.
I certainly benefit from the quiet space Greg creates with his contemplative practices. I try to work on my need to be busy rather than still and quiet (I have always liked Martha much better than Mary in the Biblical story!). Being married to Greg helps me do that.
My advice to you if you are in a relationship with a contemplative person: encourage them and, if possible, appreciate the space and quiet that can come from a contemplative life.
We all need some stillness in the midst of our hectic lives.
[Image by Betchaboy]
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