Mirabai Starr, an acclaimed author and translator of mystical texts, shares her wisdom on finding the sacred in daily life. She explores how ordinary moments can become deeply spiritual, encouraging listeners to embrace ordinary mysticism. The conversation touches on the interconnectedness of community and spirituality, as well as the transformative power of shared rituals in relationships. Starr also dives into embracing grief, highlighting the courage needed to face life's complexities, and the importance of viewing our lives as sacred ground.
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Early Mystical Experience
Mirabai Starr experienced death at a young age, which removed the veils between her and the world beyond.
This early experience granted her access to the other world and shaped her understanding of the numinous.
insights INSIGHT
Finding the Sacred in the Ordinary
People often seek meaning in the extraordinary, but profound wisdom exists in daily routines.
Mirabai Starr emphasizes the importance of looking for the sacred in the ordinary.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Portals to the Sacred
Distance yourself from established religions to experience true spirituality.
Embrace nature, art, relationships, and acts of peace and justice as portals to the sacred.
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This book preserves Maharaj's dialogues with followers from around the world who sought his guidance in destroying false identities. His sole concern was with human suffering and the ending of suffering. Maharaj taught that the mind must recognize and penetrate its own state of being, breaking the mind's false identification with the ego, and knowing that 'You are already That'. His discussions are direct, provocative, and profoundly simple, aiming to guide individuals to an understanding of their true nature and the timelessness of being[1][3][4].
The Practice of the Presence of God
Brother Lawrence (Nicolas Herman)
This book is a collection of Brother Lawrence's teachings, including his conversations and letters, which emphasize the importance of maintaining a constant awareness of God's presence. Brother Lawrence learned to find God in all his daily tasks, whether he was working in the kitchen or repairing sandals. He advocated for a simple and direct approach to living in God's presence, stressing that all work can be done as an act of love for God. The book includes his maxims and letters that provide practical advice on how to advance in the spiritual life and maintain a deep sense of God's presence in all activities.
Revelations of Divine Love
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Julian of Norwich
Revelations of Divine Love is a classic work of Christian mysticism written by Julian of Norwich. It recounts her personal experiences of divine revelation and offers profound insights into God's love and compassion. The book explores themes of God's motherhood, the nature of sin and salvation, and the ultimate triumph of love. Julian's writing is characterized by its simplicity, clarity, and profound emotional depth. It continues to inspire and challenge readers centuries after its creation.
The Interior castle
St Teresa of Avila
Ordinary Mysticism
Mirabai Starr
Mirabai Starr's "Ordinary Mysticism" offers a refreshing perspective on spirituality, emphasizing the sacredness of everyday life. The book challenges traditional notions of mysticism, suggesting that spiritual experiences aren't confined to remote locations or religious rituals. Starr encourages readers to recognize the divine in their daily routines, relationships, and struggles. She emphasizes the importance of direct experience over dogma, inviting readers to embrace their own unique path to spiritual connection. The book's accessible style and relatable anecdotes make it a valuable resource for those seeking a more grounded and inclusive approach to spirituality.
In this conversation, Mirabai Starr, acclaimed author and translator of mystical texts, shares how ordinary moments invite us to explore how the sacred can be woven into daily life. She reveals how we can transform the mundane into moments of deep spiritual connection. Mirabai Starr has taught philosophy and world religions at the University of New Mexico, Taos, for 20 years and now teaches and speaks internationally on contemplative practice and the interspiritual dialogue. She's a certified bereavement counselor and travels the world speaking and giving workshops on contemplative practice and the teachings of the mystics. She is the author and editor of many books including: Dark Night of the Soul: St. John of the Cross (Riverhead 2003), The Interior Castle: St. Teresa of Ávila (Riverhead 2004), Devotion, Prayers & Living Wisdom (Sounds True - six-volume Christian mystics series 2008), God of Love: A Guide to the Heart of Judaism, Christianity & Islam (Monkfish 2012), Wild Mercy: Living the Fierce and Tender Wisdom of the Women Mystics (Sounds True 2018) and Ordinary Mysticism: Your Life As Sacred Ground (HarperOne 2024)
Interview Date: 9/13/2024 Tags: Mirabai Starr, Daily mysticism, spiritual practice, intimate relationships, deconstructing religion, direct spiritual experience, creativity, nature, rituals, personal growth, Spirituality, Personal Transformation, Religion, Women’s Studies, Relationships, Nature, Arts & Creativity