Comtemplation in a World in Action
When Merton wrote "Contemplation in a World of Action", he considered the purpose of his writing was to try to examine the basic question of meaning. (1) Merton attempted to achieve a certain degree of spiritual harmony and balance in his own life, a social conscience, and a solitary with a need for society, a traditionalist with a radical penchant for change. For him contemplation was the fundamental reality of life. It is how we are truly human, what is real and alive. (2) According to Merton, everyone is called to live a faithful life, a life in the world with god in it. Man should attempt to be aware of, and understand God's closeness. Understanding with special passion to increase and perfect our love for him. (2) If we are made in the image of God, thus we are compelled to live our lives
2. The New Man, Farrar, Straus & Cudahy, New York, 1961. Merton writes, "He who attempts to act and do things for others or for the world without deepening his own self-understanding, freedom, integrity and capacity to love, will not have anything to give to others". (1) Merton wrote this at a time in which the United States was involved in the Vietnam conflict. He lashed out at the United States for being involved in the conflict and causing the loss of lives and damage to a country without regard as to what is really meant by freedom and love. He described the actions of the United States as being self-centered and without cause. We as a nation pushed our prejudices, beliefs, and ideas on a people, only because we had the power to do so, and our action was without thought. One must understand the fundamental intent of life in Christ and c
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Approximate Word count = 574
Approximate Pages = 2 (250 words per page double spaced)
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