The similarities between Ignatian and Islamic spirituality can be explained best by pointing to three Arabic mottos, central to the Islamic tradition, and their surprising Ignatian counterparts.
Poem: “Bethel”
In short, the message of this poem is an elaboration of Jacob's exclamation in Genesis 28:16: “Truly, the Lord is in this spot, although I did not know it.” Though I don’t often realize it, God is always with me.
Conversations with a Carmelite
When I chose the name Teresa of Avila for my Confirmation name during my freshman year of high school, I didn’t know what an important, meaningful decision I’d made. I picked her because she founded the Discalced Carmelites, a group of sisters I had grown close to in Indianapolis and admired for their contemplation, simplicity, …
Empty plane seats
This post goes along well with my last post “Returning to the river,” in that it expands on the importance of trusting in the divineness of our own imaginations. On each of my three flights to Amman during January, I had an empty seat next to me. This made the plane rides relaxing and enjoyable, …
Taxi Rides at Maghrib
After my first day at the university a few weeks ago, I jumped into a cab with a friend at dusk, stressed and tired from the long day. My mind was reeling with the new situation and setting, preoccupied with the computer problems I was having. But as I settled into the back seat, the …