"There is no time for faddish and superficial books about the spiritual life. If it is inspiration and guidance we want, we could do no better than to read the selections in this book slowly and meditatively. We could discuss them with friends, and perhaps read a commentary or two. These passages come from the ""great books"" of the spiritual life. They can offer a foundation that provides emotional and intellectual security in our search for spirit."" --from the Introduction by Thomas Moore."