From the America Magazine, January 19-26, 2015 Issue, article entitled, "Merton (Still) Matters" by Daniel P. Horan:
"Though Thomas Merton’s life was short, his output in terms of writing, poetry and correspondence was extraordinarily productive. The diversity of his work makes abundantly clear his importance in a number of areas related to Christian living, creative expression and social action. His continued popularity is confirmed by his perennial status as a best-selling author, a rare accomplishment. Many of his books have never gone out of print. The depth of his thought and spiritual genius is confirmed by the ever-growing bibliography of new articles and books written about Merton by scholars in diverse fields from theology and spirituality to American history, literature and peace studies."
I cannot remember how I started reading Merton or which book I read first; it seems he has always been there inspiring me with his writings. But there was a first time and I'm going to review my old journals to see if I did make note of that important event. I have many of his books in my library, and many books that others have compiled and many more on my to read and/or purchase lists. While we were vacationing in Bardstown, Kentucky, we were able to visit the Abbey of Gethsemani: toured the buildings, attended Vespers, handled the books in the library, rocked in chairs on the porch, bought fudge made at the monastery by the monks, walked the Stations of the Cross, and saw the marker for Father Louis in the cemetery and all was enveloped in silence! Those two days will always be with me.
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