Oneing: Ripening (PDF Download)

Established in 2013, ONEING is the biannual journal of the Center for Action and Contemplation. Renowned for its diverse and deep exploration of mysticism and culture, ONEING is grounded in Richard Rohr’s teachings and wisdom lineage. Each issue features a themed collection of thoughtfully curated essays and critical perspectives from spiritual teachers, activists, modern mystics, and prophets of all religions. 

Life stages are a lot like ripening fruit — the body, mind and spirit develop over the course of time, from an early “green” stage; to subtle changes in color, ripeness, and juiciness; to rich fullness; before becoming old, withered and falling to the ground. Through each of these stages of maturation, we do have opportunities for
inner growth.

As Richard Rohr writes in the introduction to this issue, "There must be a direction to ripening, but we must also recognize that any steps toward maturity are by necessity immature. An understanding of ripening basically teaches us the wisdom of timing, love, and patience, and allows us to be wise instead of judgmental." If we do not allow our own ripening, an ever-increasing resistance and denial sets in, an ever-increasing circling of the wagons around an over-defended self. At our very best, we learn how to hope as we ripen, to move outside and beyond self-created circles,

Vol. 1, No. 2, Fall 2013

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