Thomas Merton on Self Actualization Author:Thomas Merton Thomas Merton on Self Actualization (4 Titles, 4 CDs) In these live audio CD recordings you will hear Thomas Merton's own voice discussing his thoughts on self actualization with visiting novices during his stay at the Abbey of Gethsemani. — THE TRUE AND FALSE SELF - Our cross is to let our false self die so our true self can emerge. Merton e... more »xplains Martin Buber's concept of inner identity and the Tree of Life, then shows that a purely individual approach to our true self is inadequate.
THE FULLY HUMAN BEING - Merton begins with Greek tragedy and then moves to Confucius as he describes what it is that makes a person fully human. Especially relevant to our day is Confucius' criticism of the profit motive as destructive.
AUTHENTIC FRIENDSHIP - Friendship maintains the balance of independence and intimacy. Merton describes the characterstics of real friendship and contrasts it with manipulative behavior.
SURRENDER TO GOD - Using the metaphors of Lot's wife and Jesus' parable of not turning back once you've put your hand to the plow, Merton explains what it means to let go of a self-centered life and try to live a life surrendered to God. His teaching on the humility involved is brilliant.« less