From Wild Man to Wise Man: Reflections on Male Spirituality

Fr. Rohr gives a good overview of what forces keep males from well-rounded maturity and identifying the consequences of immaturity or rigidity on the church, societies and the world. It’s a survey which acknowledges insights from psychology, world religions and the foundational stories in myths and legends as well as from Biblical stories and Catholic teachings.

The world is sorely lacking in men willing to be mentors and good role models. Fr. Rohr asserts that is the reason for so much of the current degree of dysfunction.

There are some encounter groups to help men gather the tools and experience to gather what they need to learn and know and do—Fr. Rohr points out that head knowledge itself doesn’t transform—experience with the risk of injury and suffering is required.

As has been shown in experiments with psychoactive substances, it takes more than the experience to shed unprofitable habits and outlooks. A person going through the experience also needs support, structure and goals.

Those going through the CAC program probably develop some structure and goals. Hopefully those working through their programs gain a group with mutual support.

Some systems try to maintain dependency. With many examples of people in authority misusing power, it is difficult to establish the degree of trust to let go of what isn’t authentic and to find someone with whom one can discover authenticity. I have been searching for many decades and have yet to find such a group.

Excellent book — excellent price!

I have not had the chance to read the book. It is next on my list.

The book was not what I expected from Richard Rohr. His words of wisdom have always inspired me and my family over the years, but this book was not as fulfilling.

Given to my millennium era son.