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This week marks the halfway point in my year-long reading project through Ted Gioia's *Immersive Humanities* list, and instead of turning to Dante just yet, I'm stopping to take stock. Call it my “halftime report.”When Gioia built his list, he gave himself some rules: keep each week under 250 pages, make it global not just Western, mix in art and music, and move (mostly) in chronological order. I've tried to follow his structure, but I've also set some rules of my own: stick to the weekly schedule, read hard copies whenever possible, take notes faithfully, and—my personal favorite—skip the introductions until after finishing the book. These boundaries have kept me grounded and helped me push through the tough weeks.Along the way I've discovered a few key tools that make this project work. “Warm-ups” like short lyric poetry before longer epics have been surprisingly helpful in easing into a big text. Good translations (thank you, Penguin Classics) have been essential, while flashy but unreadable editions only get in the way. Writing in my books, flagging footnotes, and taking notes have become indispensable habits. And yes, the occasional YouTube lecture has saved me when I got stuck—no shame in that.There have been highs: falling in love with epic poetry, discovering Boethius' *Consolation of Philosophy* with my son, and realizing Aristotle's *Ethics* was hard but worth it. There have also been lows: weeks that felt too open-ended, a disappointing second half of *Confessions*, and the frustration of wanting more time to chase connections between authors. But even the “hate-reads” (looking at you, Mwindo Epic) have taught me something: knowing why you dislike a book can be as valuable as knowing why you love one.Most of all, I've learned that this project has changed how I read. I'm less afraid of poetry, drama, or “hard books.” I've discovered that reading fast has its place, that writing alongside an author can deepen the experience, and that I actually thrive on having a big, purposeful challenge in front of me.So here I am halfway through, still going strong, and more convinced than ever that the classics have something to offer ordinary readers like you and me. Next week we begin Dante, and I can't wait. This is a year-long challenge! LINKTed Gioia/The Honest Broker's 12-Month Immersive Humanities Course (paywalled!)My Amazon Book List (NOT an affiliate link)CONNECTTo read more of my writing, visit my Substack - https://www.cheryldrury.substack.com.Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cldrury/ LISTENSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5GpySInw1e8IqNQvXow7Lv?si=9ebd5508daa245bdApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crack-the-book/id1749793321 Captivate - https://crackthebook.captivate.fm
Week 3 of BLC's August church-culture experiment following the ”Revised Common Lectionary” for our inspiration. This week, we talk about one of the main reasons churches are meant to exist. (Photo by Olga Kovalski on Unsplash)Join our live chat! https://discord.gg/MNXJSM8New here? http://brownlinechurch.org/connectResources http://brownlinechurch.org/resources Donate http://brownlinechurch.org/donate
Week 3 of BLC's August church-culture experiment following the ”Revised Common Lectionary” for our inspiration. This week, we talk about one of the main reasons churches are meant to exist. (Photo by Olga Kovalski on Unsplash)Join our live chat! https://discord.gg/MNXJSM8New here? http://brownlinechurch.org/connectResources http://brownlinechurch.org/resources Donate http://brownlinechurch.org/donate
Mari Otsu joins Stephen Blackwood for a deeply personal conversation about her journey through the wounds of materialism, ideology, and spiritual forgetting, and her return to the soul through the beauty of the humanities. Reflecting on her years at NYU and the Grand Central Atelier, Mari speaks of a longing that nothing in the modern, politicized worldview could satisfy, and how she found healing in therapy, classical painting, and, most profoundly, the living philosophical community of Ralston College. Engaging with the works of Plotinus, Boethius, and Dante, she discovered a path of purification and ascent that restored her sense of meaning and inspired her to share these treasures with others. This conversation explores the roots of today's meaning crisis and the redemptive power of beauty, thought, and imagination to heal the soul. Subscribe to receive the latest Ralston College updates at www.ralston.ac/sign-up. Authors and Works Mentioned in this Episode: Plotinus' Enneads Boethius' Consolation of Philosophy Augustine's Confessions Plato Dante's Divine Comedy Monique Wittig's The Straight Mind Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 01:29 - Conversation Begins 02:18 - About Mari 6:00 - Βrief Review of Mari's time at Ralston 8:00 - Mari's Descent into Anguish and Fragmentation 15:20 - The Ideological Component: NYU 23:30 - Leaving Blame Behind 27:20 - Fear as a Symptom of a Spiritual Pathology 29:00 - The Role of Therapy and Right Relationship 34:00 - The Power of Art 44:16 - Moving from Beauty to Contemplation 46:51 - Beginning at Ralston 1:00:00 - Plotinus Moving Beyond Beauty 1:08:00 - Wrapping It All Up 01:11:01 - Exit Music and Fade
Join Pastor Derek Neider in this inspiring episode of The Daily Devotional as he kicks off a powerful new series on the book of Romans. In today's devotional, Derek introduces us to one of the most theologically rich books of the Bible, unpacking the significance of the apostle Paul's words and the gospel's eternal message.In this first chapter, Derek dives deep into Paul's self-description as a servant of Christ and a chosen messenger of God's good news. Through thoughtful reflections, Derek encourages us to embrace our calling to serve Christ wholeheartedly and live out our faith with purpose and surrender.Tune in for insightful teachings, practical application, and a fresh perspective on what it means to live as servants of the gospel. This is just the beginning—there's so much more to come as we journey through Romans together!Thank you for listening! Here are some ways to learn more and stay connected!New to faith? Click here!Learn more about Pastor Derek NeiderFollow Derek on Instagramor FacebookSubscribe to email Subscribe to the daily devotionalExplore recent messages!This podcast was created by Pastor Derek Neider as a ministry of Awaken Las Vegas.Visit our website. We are located at 7175 W. Oquendo Road, Las Vegas, NV 89113. Our gathering times are 9am & 11am Sundays and 6:30pm Thursdays.
Many people get stuck in discernment because fear can disguise itself as prudence. In this episode, Catholic therapist Adam Cross is joined by Emmaus Townsend to explore how faith and therapy together can bring clarity and peace when choosing a vocation. Drawing from Catholic tradition and clinical insight, they share practical ways to hear God, calm anxiety, and move forward with confidence. Topics covered: Fear vs prudence, how anxiety can sound holy and how to test the fruit, peace or pressure. Consolation and desolation, simple checks and common mistakes in discernment. Scrupulosity and overchecking, why they derail decisions and what to do instead. Discernment rhythms, prayer, silence, Scripture, sacraments, and spiritual direction. When to wait and when to act, practical steps to decide with peace. Vocations in real life, marriage, priesthood, religious life, and single life. Listening to your body and nervous system to steady worry and make a clear choice. Tune in for a hopeful conversation on faith, psychology, and the path from paralysis to peace in vocation decisions. Have questions? Visit my website: adamcrossmft.com Adam Cross LMFT #116623
In this second talk of three in our series of prayer, we examine the first four rules of St. Ignatius's Rules for the Discernment of Spirits!
Life is precious because it ends. In this Stoic Quotes episode, Benny reflects on one of Seneca's most powerful lines from Consolation to Marcia:“Life, it is thanks to death that you are precious in my eyes.”Discover how the Stoics saw death not as something to fear, but as the reason we should live fully. Learn how this view can help you approach life with urgency, gratitude, and virtue — making the most of the time you have now. Perfect for anyone exploring Seneca's quotes on death, the Stoic view of mortality, and practical philosophy for living well.In the Stoic Quotes series, we explore timeless wisdom from Seneca, Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, and more — uncovering what they meant then and how we can live it today.In this episode, Benny unpacks why the Stoics believed death adds value to life, weaving in Seneca's insights, Epictetus' advice, and even a lyric from Pearl Jam's I Am Mine. You'll hear practical reflections on living according to nature, fulfilling your roles well, and meeting the end of life — whenever it comes — with peace and dignity.If you are looking for more quotes like this one, visit viastoica.com. We have hundreds of Stoic sayings with full references, so you can find them in the original texts or use them in your own work.
“Everlasting consolation.” — 2 Thessalonians 2:16 “Consolation.” There is music in the word: like David's harp, it charms away the evil spirit of melancholy. It was a distinguished I honour to Barnabas to be called “the son of consolation”; nay, it is one of the illustrious names of a greater than Barnabas, for the Lord […]
Shabbat Nachamu and the prophecy from Isaiah 40 brings us a "word of consolation" for these dark days when the spirit of AntiChrist's "strong delusion" has taken hold of the globe.
Today in History: Shabbat Nachamu (Sabbath of Consolation) is the Sabbath that comes after the 9th of Av. It gets its name from the Haftarah in Isaiah 40, “Comfort, O comfort My people [Nachamu, nachamu ami].” It is the first of the 7 “Haftarot of Comfort.” The encouraging prophetic readings on Shabbat lead all the way up to Rosh HaShanah (Trumpets). Tu B'Av (the 15th of Av) is known as the “Festival of Love.” In ancient times, people celebrated that the yearly gathering of wood for the Temple altar was finished. The daughters of Jerusalem would go out to dance in the vineyards. Whoever was not married would go there to find a bride (tradition, see b.Taanit 31a).This week's portion is called ”Va'etchanan” (I pleaded)TORAH PORTION: Deuteronomy 6:4–7:11HAFTARAH: Isaiah 40:1–26APOSTLES: 1 Peter 1:18–25How does the Haftarah connect to these weeks of consolation?How do the Apostles connect to this week's Haftarah?Daily Bread for Kids is a daily Bible reading podcast where we read through the Torah and the Gospels in one year! Helping young Bible-readers to study God's Word, while also discovering its Jewish context!THE KIDS' JOURNAL is available from https://arielmedia.shopBUSY MOMS who want to follow the Daily Bread readings on podcast for adults, can go to https://dailybreadmoms.comThe Bible translation we are reading from is the Tree of Life Version (TLV) available from the Tree of Life Bible Society.INSTAGRAM: @dailybreadkids @arielmediabooks @dailybreadmomsTags: #DailyBreadMoms #DailyBreadJournal #BibleJournaling #Messianic #BiblePodcast #BiblicalFeasts #Journal #biblereadingplan #Messiah #JewishRoots #Yeshua #GodIsInControl #OneYearBible #MomLife #MotherCulture #FaithFilledMama #BiblicalWomanhood #Proverbs31woman
This evening we discuss the name of the Mitzvah of Mezuzah, which actually refers to the doorpost, not the rolled-up scroll. We explore how this Shabbat, Shabbat Nachamu (the Shabbat of Consolation) drastically changes the mood from the sadness and mourning of Tisha B'Av to the exuberance we now experience. We explain this with a great story about feeding a lion, and a closer looks at the words of the Haftorah. We then analyze this Shabbat from a different perspective based on Sfas Emes, and a touching story about a roller coaster. Michael Whitman is the senior rabbi of ADATH Congregation in Hampstead, Quebec, and an adjunct professor at McGill University Faculty of Law. ADATH is a modern orthodox synagogue community in suburban Montreal, providing Judaism for the next generation. We take great pleasure in welcoming everyone with a warm smile, while sharing inspiration through prayer, study, and friendship. Rabbi Whitman shares his thoughts and inspirations through online lectures and shiurim, which are available on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5FLcsC6xz5TmkirT1qObkA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adathmichael/ Podcast - Mining the Riches of the Parsha: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/mining-the-riches-of-the-parsha/id1479615142?fbclid=IwAR1c6YygRR6pvAKFvEmMGCcs0Y6hpmK8tXzPinbum8drqw2zLIo7c9SR-jc Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3hWYhCG5GR8zygw4ZNsSmO Please contact Rabbi Whitman (rabbi@adath.ca) with any questions or feedback, or to receive a daily email, "Study with Rabbi Whitman Today," with current and past insights for that day, video, and audio, all in one short email sent directly to your inbox.
Une double consolation pour Israël by Rav David Touitou
A new MP3 sermon from Lisburn Free Presbyterian Church is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Facing the Contrary Wind - The Christians Greatest Possible Consolation Subtitle: A Night of Wonders in the Deep Speaker: Rev. Michael Patrick Broadcaster: Lisburn Free Presbyterian Church Event: Prayer Meeting Date: 7/21/2025 Bible: Mark 6:45-53 Length: 30 min.
Acknowledges receipt of the pan and extends blessings for good news, especially during the doubled consolation of these days, which bring both spiritual and physical elevation for the Jewish people. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/012/5640
This is the real punk rock! Jason Consolation and Greg Twomey return to the show to talk about Superman (2025). The boys discuss the cast, rank the Supermen, talk about the state of the DCU vs the state of the MCU, and much much more. Frank shares some negative reviews of the film, and we also discuss some of the real world themes in the movie. Plus, we have an exclusive interview with one of the stars of the film, and we play a game called Krypto or Crypto. It's a god damn Terrific time. LET'S GO DC!
Fr. Mike brings us into the book of Consolation as we continue through Isaiah, and learn about how God never fails to comfort his people, even in the worst of times. He also introduces us to the Prophet Ezekiel, as we read about God accompanying his people into exile, even after their unfaithfulness.Today's readings are Isaiah 39-40, Ezekiel 1, and Proverbs 11:29-31. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
2 Samuel 12 is about the LORD's restoration of David from his low ebb of wilful sin against his Heavenly Father to the time of David's resuming full and free fellowship with God. The prophet Nathan is sent to king David with a parable that was designed to wake the king from his state of selfishness and stir him into a recognition of what he had done. Only true repentance could restore him and the lesson learnt becomes an impetus for each of us to turn to the LORD to find healing. Nathan tells a parable about a wealthy arrogant and self centred man who takes from the poor man a precious ewe lamb, that was like a daughter to that man. How typical it is for some wealthy individuals to believe that the destitute exist for them to be exploited. This, however, was not characteristic of David. And so David was enraged at the lack of pity which the rich man had shown. Sin was the traveller who came to David and who caused David to behave uncharacteristically. The king commanded the death of the rich man and compensation of four times the loss be paid to the poor man. This was of course what the Law had demanded for a trespass offering. This offering spoke of restitution for deceit in relation to the holy things. Nathan dramatically says to David: You are the man. David fully understands his guilt, deception and lack of pity. David is condemned by his own mouth and is worthy to die. No offering could cover his sin. All he could do was to throw himself upon the mercy of the Almighty. The prophet says that the sword would not depart from David's house. David was to pay with the loss of four sons - the child that was born of his adultery with Bathsheba, Absalom, Amnon and Adonijah. As king David had done with Uriah's wife Bathsheba, so would David's son - Absalom - do with the wives of his father David - but openly before all Israel. Nathan tells the king that Yahweh has put away David's transgression. Our sins will be forgiven if we repent and turn our hearts to our Sovereign. That doesn't mean that there will not be consequences flowing from our wrongs. Verses 16-23 tells us that the child born to Bathsheba became sick and died. David entreated his Maker to allow the child to live. The king was full of contrition and afflicted himself with fasting and not allowing music in his presence. When his son died David's servants were frightened to tell him lest he do something regrettable. But David rose up and washed putting on fresh clothes. They asked him why? He said he had hoped that God would show mercy to the child, but now the child had died entreating was pointless. David would, when he died, join his son in the unconscious sleep of death. Consolation was given to David and Bathsheba in the birth of another son who was born in a manner that pleased their Heavenly Father. Verse 26 records that Yahweh loved this child who was given the epithet - Jedidiah meaning "loved of Yah" and that child was later named Solomon meaning "peaceful". After being forgiven David wrote Psalms 32 and 51 to celebrate the mercy and loving kindness of the LORD God Almighty and to teach others about turning to their loving Father in the time of their need - see also Paul's comments in Romans 4 verses 5-8. 2 Samuel 12 finishes by describing the fall of Rabbah to Joab and the army and Joab's summoning David to be there as the city fell. It also describes David being crowned with the crown of the king of Rabbah and the great treasure taken. The Ammonites were then put to rigorous work by David. Jeremiah 16 verses 1-4 tell of the LORD commanding Jeremiah not to marry because of the nearing judgments of God on Judah. The nation would be destroyed through famine, warfare and diseases leaving their carcasses as unburied dung on the ground. Verses 5-9 speak of the vast extent of the destruction. There would be no time to mourn the dead because of the uproar and chaos that rapidly spread over Judah. Normal life would be suspended as the exiles were dragged away with hooks through their bodies. In verses 10-13 the nation would bemoan their condition and protest that they did not deserve such treatment. Verses 14-21 foretell their restoration by their Almighty Sovereign. At that time Yahweh would be known for His deliverance of His people from the northern captivity rather than when He had earlier gained a Name for delivering His nation from Egypt. Verses 16-18 reveal that prior to this time of restoring GOD would save them from life threatening destruction. Modern Israel came through great pogroms and near extinction during the Nazi holocaust. The Nazis were the "hunters" whereas the Zionists - such as Theodore Hertzl - were the "fishers" who sought to entice Jewish people to return to their ancestral homeland - Israel: see Ezekiel 37-38, Deuteronomy 28 verses 64-68. Verses 19-21 say that eventually Israel would acknowledge their sins and idolatry and finally return to the true and living God. In that day Israel will know their God by experience and not just theoretically: Ezekiel 37:28; 38 verse 23, Joel 3 verses 14-21; Romans 11 verses 13-24. Matthew 27 starts with Judas hanging himself when he saw that Jesus would not take his kingdom then, but would wrongfully suffer and submit to death. Then follow six sham trials - three before Jewish authorities and three before Roman officials. The marvel of our Lord's submission, his care and compassion for others is evident in the brief record of his crucifixion. Our Lord Jesus was totally in control of his mind despite being brutally scourged by the Romans - scourging was called the intermediate death for many a man died under the flaying of his flesh. Pilate may have hoped that the Jews would have pity on Jesus when he said: "Behold the man". But sadly they did not. Then our Lord Jesus Christ was crucified. On the stake he spoke seven wonderful sayings - each of these from the holy Scriptures. Note our Lord Jesus' incredible submission to his wrongful treatment and contemplate the lessons that Peter draws for us in 1 Peter 2 verses18-25. That Jesus had mastery over himself as well as triumphing over his foes the Apostle Paul tells us: Colossians 2 verses 11-15. Jesus was buried in the unused tomb of Joseph of Aramithea, in fulfilment of the prophecy of Isaiah 53 verse 9. A guard of four temple soldiers was placed at the mouth of his tomb. This would contribute to the incontrovertible evidence that would accompany our Lord Jesus' resurrection.
A new MP3 sermon from The Narrated Puritan is now available on SermonAudio with the following details: Title: Continuance in waiting necessary to peace and consolation Subtitle: John Owen - Forgiveness of Sin Speaker: John Owen Broadcaster: The Narrated Puritan Event: Audiobook Date: 7/17/2025 Bible: Psalm 130:4 Length: 5 min.
Trump to fire Powell? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Now, what is the way to receive that which comes from mere sovereignty and prerogative? Doth not the nature of the thing require humble waiting? If, then, either impatience cast the soul into frowardness, or weariness make it slothful (which are the two ways whereby waiting is ruined), let not such a one expect any comfortable issue of his contending for deliverance out of his depths.
Fr. Mike reveals yet another prophetic message that points towards the coming of Christ, explaining why the Book of Isaiah is often called the Book of Woe and the Book of Consolation. He also touches on the powerful prayer we hear as we end our journey with Tobit. Today's readings are Isaiah 11-13, Tobit 13-14, and Proverbs 10:13-16. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/bibleinayear. Please note: The Bible contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.
"God's Consolation" – II Corinthians 1:3-7 Sermon by Dr. George C. Anderson from Sunday, July 13, 2025. "Your self is a good gift. It helps you dream, build, grow and relate, live your life. But it's a perishable item. "Thank God you are not just a self with a shelf-life. You are a soul—named, known, and beloved, not because of what you do, but because of who God is. "And when the self is lost, the soul remains. That… is God's consolation." Read the manuscripts of our latest sermons at: https://www.spres.org/worship/sermons/
Look! No, not up in the sky. On your podcast player of choice! It's a podcast! Our Superman miniseries starts this week with two Superman Super-fans: Greg Twomey and Jason Consolation. Greg, Jason, and Frank talk all things Supes, including, but not limited to: Favorite Superman power, John Williams, the music, our personal histories with Superman, DC vs Marvel, the Snyderverse, and oh so much more. Ever wondered what the deal is with Superboy? Well then this is the episode for you. Jason also teaches us what it's like to consume a movie via audio description. It's a super fun time talking about a Super guy: Superman! LET'S GO DC!!!
This week, we take on Apuleius' The Golden Ass, a hilarious surprise from Ted Gioia's Immersive Humanities Course. Written in the mid-300s A.D., this is the very first Latin prose novel, penned by Algerian-born Apuleius. Lucius, our hero, is a young man who meddles in magic, transforms into a donkey, and embarks on wild adventures before returning to human form. We were so captivated that note-taking fell by the wayside, much like with Herodotus' Histories. This rollicking tale, brimming with late-Roman-Empire themes, proved both hilarious and profound.Unlike Aristotle's structured tragedy guidelines (see Week 5's Poetics), The Golden Ass defies unity of action, place, and time, weaving a tapestry of digressions and sub-stories. Lucius' transformation serves as a spine for tales like “I heard…” or “So they told me…,” echoing the nested narratives of The Odyssey and The Aeneid. The standout sub-story is the myth of Cupid and Psyche, the earliest known version, which stunned us as the inspiration for C.S. Lewis' Till We Have Faces. Its late appearance for a myth feels significant, reflecting a decadent, fatigued Roman worldview. Fortune, personified as in Boethius' Consolation of Philosophy, reappears, underscoring this era's preoccupations.Sarah Ruden's translation is a triumph, preserving Apuleius' puns, alliteration, and bawdy humor. This farce, second only to Lysistrata in humor, is delightfully NSFW, with outrageous scenes that shocked even our son Jack. Ruden notes comparisons to modern humorists like Wodehouse or George MacDonald Fraser's Flashman series, and we see parallels to Forrest Gump—Lucius stumbles through events without driving the plot. The book's influence extends to A Confederacy of Dunces, sparking new reading threads for us, exactly why we joined this course.We paired this with Scott Joplin's ragtime, evoking The Sting's lively vibe. Initially, the rags blended together, but subtle differences, like occasional piano percussion, emerged over time, enriching our listening. Next week, we continue with more narrative, music, and art, including Vincent van Gogh's works, in this eclectic journey. Join us next week as we travel east and read The Arabian Nights.LINKTed Gioia/The Honest Broker's 12-Month Immersive Humanities Course (paywalled!)My Amazon Book List (NOT an affiliate link)O Brother Where Art ThouCirceRagtime (The Sting, YouTube)Young Gun Silver FoxTed's "New" Yacht Rock postCONNECTTo read more of my writing, visit my Substack - https://www.cheryldrury.substack.com.Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cldrury/ LISTENSpotify -
Welcome to The Via Stoica Podcast: Stoic Quotes SeriesIn this episode of the Stoic Quotes Series, we reflect on a striking line found in Seneca's Consolation to Marcia—originally attributed to the slave philosopher Publius Syrus:“Whatever fate one man can strike can come to all of us alike.”– Publius, quoted in Seneca, Dialogues and Essays, Consolation to Marcia, 9This quote is part of a powerful letter Seneca wrote to a grieving mother who had lost her son in battle. He reminds us that suffering is not reserved for the few—it's part of the shared human experience. In this episode, we explore how to use this truth not as a source of despair, but as a source of preparation, connection, and compassion.We'll break down the quote, put it in its historical context, and offer Stoic practices to help you reflect on loss, unpredictability, and the strength found in solidarity.If you're looking for more wisdom like this, visit viastoica.com, where you'll find hundreds of authentic Stoic quotes—each verified and referenced so you can trust and use them.Browse our quote collections:viastoica.com/stoic-quotesviastoica.com/seneca-quotesviastoica.com/epictetus-quotesviastoica.com/marcus-aurelius-quotesMake sure to subscribe for future quote episodes and our regular Tuesday interviews and reflections. And if this episode helped you, please leave a review—it helps us reach more people on the Stoic path.www.ViaStoica.comviastoica.com/stoic-life-coachingviastoica.com/benny-vonckenviastoica.com/brendan-hogletwitter.com/ViaStoicaReach us: info@viastoica.comProduced by: badmic.com
Phil Hudson - What will help us grow in hope? In this final chapter of the Book of Consolation, God paints a picture of glorious restoration, accomplished as all his great covenant promises converge. As we dwell on these promises he will strengthen us in hope.
Consolation and Desolation--the tides of a life with God. Sermon by Al Andrews begins at 14:51.
In this episode, I speak with John Marenbon, Cambridge Professor of medieval philosophy and world expert on Boethius, about Boethius's masterwork "Consolation of Philosophy". I hope you enjoy our conversation.
In this episode, my son Jack joins me to examine The Consolation of Philosophy by Boethius, a Roman scholar living just after the fall of the Roman Empire in 476 CE. A renaissance man before the Renaissance, Boethius translated Greek philosophers like Aristotle and Plato, served as a trusted aide to the Gothic king Theodoric in Ravenna, and was a mathematician, astronomer, and family man whose sons became consuls in their early 20s. Despite his Christian faith, tensions with the Arian Theodoric led to his imprisonment and brutal execution at 44. This tragedy tarnished Theodoric's rule, but Boethius' legacy shaped medieval thought, preserving Greek philosophy and influencing giants like Chaucer, Dante, Aquinas, and Shakespeare.Written in a cell awaiting death, The Consolation of Philosophy is a profound dialogue between Boethius and Lady Philosophy. Divided into five books, it blends prose (prosa) and poetry (metrea), offering wisdom through a narrative arc. Book One introduces Boethius' despair; Book Two explores Fortune's fickleness; Book Three seeks the highest Good; Book Four tackles the problem of evil; and Book Five reconciles divine foreknowledge with free will. The poems, rich with mythological and Biblical imagery, provide emotional breaks and reinforce the prose's insights. As C.S. Lewis noted, this work was beloved by educated Europeans for centuries.Boethius weaves Neoplatonism, Stoicism, and Aristotelian ideas into a Christian framework. Lady Philosophy echoes Plato's belief in innate knowledge, urging Boethius to “dream of your origin,” and champions philosopher-kings. Stoic themes emerge as she declares the mind free despite bodily exile, while Aristotle's Unmoved Mover aligns with Boethius' God. The concept of exile as a spiritual crisis resonates, connecting Boethius to figures like Odysseus and Dante.Jack and I discuss whether this is a satire, and how much both of us love Boethius as a character in his own novel.The Ignatius Press edition, translated by Scott Goins and Barbara Wyman, shines with clear prose, excellent footnotes, and quality paper—perfect for annotating. This book demands a reread and sparks a reading list including Chaucer, Milton, and C.S. Lewis' The Discarded Image. Join us! I think this book is for everyone, but even if you think, "Maybe not for me," you'll know what it's about and why it matters.This is a year-long challenge! Join me next week for Sun Tzu's The Art of War and The Tao Te Ching from Lao Tzu.LINKTed Gioia/The Honest Broker's 12-Month Immersive Humanities Course (paywalled!)My Amazon Book List (NOT an affiliate link)CONNECTTo read more of my writing, visit my Substack - https://www.cheryldrury.substack.com.Follow me on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cldrury/ LISTENSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5GpySInw1e8IqNQvXow7Lv?si=9ebd5508daa245bdApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/crack-the-book/id1749793321 Captivate -
John 20
John 20
In this episode I am joined by Johan Hausen, Taoist teacher, translator, Chinese medicine practitioner, and founder of Purple Cloud Press. Johan shares his life story from years of competitive Tae Kwon Do, through his travels and travails in China in search of a master, and to his eventual training and discipleship in the Wu Dang mountains. Johan reflects on his years learning Classical and spoken Chinese, considers the challenges of translating ancient literature for modern readers, and reveals the unique metaphors and analogies used in textual descriptions of Internal Alchemy. Johan also describes the Taoist quest for immortality, explains his research into the dantien and the mineralogy of cinnabar, and recounts stories of his own encounters with spiritually advanced beings. … Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. ... Topics Include: 00:00 - Intro 00:57 - Admiration for Mattias Daly 02:56 - Learning Chinese to better learn Taoism 04:53 - How Johan learned Classical vs Spoken Chinese 08:11 - Language is about communication 08:47 - Should we consult living masters about textual translation problems? 10:24 - Metaphors and analogies used in Internal Alchemy 12:53 - Why are there different ideas about the dantian? 14:12 - Is the dantian constructed or inherent? 16:12 - Elixir fields? 17:37 - Johan's research on the mineralogy of cinnabar using Chinese texts 18:04 - The old alchemists' surprisingly good understanding of organic chemistry 20:56 - Johan's childhood and training in Tae Kwon Do 22:47 - Johan's competitive Tae Kwon Do career of over 100 fights 25:18 - Injury and travel to China for healing 26:24 - Travelling to China at 20 years old to train Shaolin kung fu 28:48 0 Training methods of Shaolin kung fu 30:35 - Demystifying the myths of Shaolin training 33:08 - Recovery routine 34:26 - Illness and leaving China 36:15 - Returning to Germany and feelings of failure 37:47 - Leaving a film course in London to train in the Wu Dang mountains 40:32 - Meeting Li Shifu at the Five Immortals Temple 41:54 - Curriculum at the Five Immortals Temple 43:08 - Studying acupuncture and dedication to learning 44:19 - Years of study under Li Shifu and joining the lineage 47:26 - Struggles with being treated as a foreigner in China 50:50 - Growing resentment and leaving China 55:26 - Johan's Dragon Gate Lineage 56:28 - The quest for immortality 58:53 - Details about Taoist Immortals 01:00:34 - Difficulty of becoming an Immortal 01:02:10 - Consolation prize if you fail to achieve immortality 01:03:38 - Ethical rules of the Dragon Gate Lineage 01:04:59 - A typical daily practice routine 01:06:47 - Singing the scriptures to communicate to spirits 01:09:26 - Taoist patron spirit of Wudang 01:14:45 - The remarkable qualities of Li Shifu 01:15:52 - Praise is bad in traditional Chinese teaching 01:17:05 - Is Li Shifu an Immortal? 01:18:02 - Johan's reverence for his teacher 01:19:29 - Explaining culture clashes to Lif Shifu 01:20:33 - Is charisma and spiritual power inherent or cultivated? 01:24:45 - Li Shifu does not have attained disciples 01:26:05 - Is it really possible to achieve success in Taoism, or is it mostly just natural talent? 01:33:11 - Using gifted practitioners as inspiration 01:34:18 - Purple Cloud Press 01:35:56 - Johan's goal to create community and preserve texts 01:37:09 - Search for location and funds To find out more about Johan Hausen, visit: - https://purplecloudinstitute.com/about-us/who-we-are-2/ … For more interviews, videos, and more visit. - www.guruviking.com … Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
In this episode of The Sodality of Our Lady Radio Hour, Thomas looks at feasts of Our Lady in June and looks further into the feast of Our Lady of Consolation (Our Lady of Luxemburg). He then looks at Catholic Ireland which became the Irish Monthly. L'articolo Sodality of Our Lady Radio Hour – Feasts of Our Lady – Our Lady of Consolation – Catholic Ireland proviene da Radio Maria.
durée : 00:53:32 - Very Good Trip - par : Michka Assayas - Ce soir, un programme très mélodieux, vous y entendrez des voix que vous connaissez, d'autres pas du tout, vous avez l'habitude. Et on commence tout de suite par quelque chose de très ensoleillé. - réalisé par : Stéphane Ronxin
durée : 00:54:36 - Very Good Trip - par : Michka Assayas - Ce soir, un programme très mélodieux, vous y entendrez des voix que vous connaissez, d'autres pas du tout, vous avez l'habitude. Et on commence tout de suite par quelque chose de très ensoleillé. - réalisé par : Stéphane Ronxin
Ken talks with Brandon Otto “My Burden is Light: Suffering and Consolation in the Christian Life” by St John of Avila (TAN Books) and David Bonagura, Jr. “100 Tough Questions for Catholics: Common Obstacles to Faith Today.” (Sophia Institute Press). Brandon's book available at: https://tanbooks.com/products/books/my-burden-is-light-suffering-and-consolation-in-the-christian-life/ and David's at: https://sophiainstitute.com/product/100-tough-questions-for-catholics/ Follow David at: https://www.davidgbonagurajr.com/ L'articolo Meet the Author with Ken Huck – June 5, 2025 – Brandon Otto “My Burden is Light: Suffering and Consolation in the Christian Life” by St John of Avila and David Bonagura, Jr. “100 Tough Questions for Catholics: Common Obstacles to Faith Today” proviene da Radio Maria.
durée : 00:28:03 - Les Midis de Culture - par : Marie Labory - Après "Crave" et "Le Cirque de Consolation", deux premiers albums qui avaient soufflé la critique, Léonie Pernet fait paraître "Poèmes pulvérisés", une ode lumineuse aux identités fragmentées. - réalisation : Laurence Malonda - invités : Léonie Pernet Musicienne et chanteuse française
Loving as Jesus Loved: A Challenge and a Consolation The Homily focuses on Jesus' words from John' s Gospel 15, . . . . . . where He urges His followers to “remain in me as I remain in you.” This call to dwell in Christ is central to spiritual fruitfulness. Just as branches cannot bear fruit without being connected to the vine, Christians cannot bear spiritual fruit without remaining in Jesus. This abiding is achieved through keeping His commandments, especially the command to love one another as He has loved us . . . a love marked by sacrifice, humility, and divine origin. However, such Christ-like love may not be well received by the world. Jesus warns that the world may hate those who reflect His love, just as it rejected Him. Yet, believers are encouraged to persevere, knowing that their love is not of this world but from heaven. True Christian love will often be misunderstood or even opposed, but disciples are reminded that their example follows Jesus Himself, who was persecuted. The Homily concludes with a prayer for strength to persevere in Christ's love and to love others as He loved us . . . not with worldly affection, but with divine, sacrificial love. Hear more within this Meditation Media. Listen to: Loving as Jesus Loved: A Challenge and a Consolation ------------------------------------------------------- Quote From The Homily We should not expect that they'll love us back. Some of them will despise us, but we move on because we know that they do not know that the love that we are giving them is not of this world. It is of heaven because we do not belong to this world. We belong to heaven and the love that we give belongs to heaven. ------------------------------------------------------- Christ and the Children: Mexican Painter: Juan Urruchi: late 1800s ------------------------------------------------------- Gospel Reading: John 15: 18-21 First Reading: Acts 16: 1-10
Beyond all Consolation: A Jewish Philosophy of Redemption and TragedyRabbi Jason Rubenstein joined Harvard Hillel as Executive Director on June 1, 2024 after six years as the Howard M. Holtzman Jewish Chaplain at Yale. Jason's background is as diverse as Harvard's Jewish community: a childhood at Temple Micah in Washington DC, formative years studying at Yeshivat Ma'ale Gilboa in northern Israel, and rabbinic ordination from the Jewish Theological Seminary. From 2010-2018, Jason taught on the faculty of the Hadar Institute, where he created classrooms, conversations, and communities that bring Torah into an open-ended dialogue with the fullness of students' lives.From his own formative undergraduate years at Harvard Hillel, where he met his wife, Arielle Rubenstein ‘07, Jason knows how Hillel can and should transform students' lives – and through them, American Jewish life. For a fuller view of Jason's plan for Harvard Hillel's future, you can listen to his interview with Yehuda Kurtzer (PhD ‘08).View his full bio here
Send me a text! I'd love to know what you're thinking!For a lot of us, evangelism has become kind of utilitarian—just another tool to stop our church's decline and hopefully secure a future for our congregation. But what if, instead of simply trying to grow our numbers or help people go to heaven when they die, we reframed evangelism as an act of journeying alongside people in their deepest pain, bringing truly good news to those who are struggling to find hope?In this episode, Andrew Root, the author of Evangelism in an Age of Despair, challenges us to rethink evangelism as a ministry of consolation—a ministry that meets people where they are, in moments of suffering and loneliness.THIS EPISODE'S HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:Andrew Root defines what he means by "the age of despair" and whose despair he references.Andrew Root explains that despair is a widespread cultural malaise, marked by sadness, unhappiness, and a rise in loneliness and rage.Despair in the world is not just circumstantial, but is rooted in the cultural emphasis on pursuing happiness, which ironically increases unhappiness.Andrew Root describes two forms of despair in the church: one shared with the wider culture, and the other, a fear of decline and extinction unique to congregations.Churches are tempted to view evangelism mainly as a way to increase attendance and avoid closing, rather than as sharing good news.Markus Watson reflects that treating evangelism as a utilitarian tool for survival creates questions about the real motivation for sharing the gospel.Evangelism should be understood as contextual and as a way of consoling neighbors in moments of loss, rather than following a fixed formula.Andrew Root states that the central work of evangelism involves the theology of consolation—being present with others in their brokenness and grief.Evangelism is about responding to Jesus's call and helping people encounter Him, especially within their contexts of sorrow and loneliness.Andrew Root discusses the failure of social media and modern culture to offer true consolation or presence to people in grief.Consolation involves walking with people through suffering, which is an important aspect of Christian tradition and a necessity in these lonely times.Markus Watson observes that the traditional “four spiritual laws” approach doesn't address the needs of people experiencing profound sorrow.Andrew Root argues that faithfulness in the church is not simply measured by numerical growth, and that addressing people's suffering is not a distraction from its mission.Evangelism should invite people to join a pilgrimage, walking together through sorrow and loss toward a deeper encounter with God.The church's calling is to create communities that walk with others in their pain, offering hope and the presence of Christ, instead of merely aiming for church growth.RELEVANT RESOURCES AND LINKS:Andrew Root:WebsiteBooks mentioned:Evangelism in an Age of Despair, by Andrew Root The Church After Innovation, by Andrew Root The Promise of Despair, by Andrew RootGet Becoming Leaders of Shalom for free HERE.Click HERE to get my FREE online course, BECOMING LEADERS OF SHALOM.
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Episode 148 – Hobbits As Consolation Class, by Daniel Dean Reading performed by Nick LS Whelan. The original post can be found via the Internet Archive's wayback machine for Daniel's old Basic Red RPG blog. Help offset our hosting costs with a donation on Ko-Fi! The music is a selection from “Journey of Solitude,” composed … Continue reading "Episode 148 – Hobbits As Consolation Class, by Daniel Dean"
Soirée de louanges au Sanctuaire Notre dame de la Consolation (Hyères ). Avec la communauté Recado
Join us as we conclude our discussion on Tolkien's fantastic essay "On Fairy-stories"! In this episode, we discuss why fairy-stories are not just for children, what true fantasy really is, the proper attitude of escapism, and why the Gospels are at the heart of it all. Follow us on X! Give us your opinions here!
Khutbah - A story of hope and consolation 100% of your donations today goes towards the means of providing accessible Islamic knowledge to people around the world: supportqalam.com. Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/qalaminstitute Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/qalaminstitute Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/qalaminstitute Subscribe on Youtube: youtube.com/user/qalaminstitute
Read Online“Look, all these years I served you and not once did I disobey your orders; yet you never gave me even a young goat to feast on with my friends. But when your son returns who swallowed up your property with prostitutes, for him you slaughter the fattened calf.” Luke 15:22–24This was the reaction of the faithful son in the Parable of the Prodigal Son. Recall that after squandering his inheritance, the Prodigal Son returns home humiliated and poor, asking his father if he will take him back and treat him as if he were a hired hand. But the father surprises him and throws a huge party for the son to celebrate his return. But the father's other son, the one who remained with him throughout the years, would not join in the celebration.Was it fair that the father killed the fatted calf and threw this large party to celebrate his wayward son's return? Was it fair that that same father apparently never even gave his faithful son a young goat to feast on with his friends? The right answer is that this is the wrong question.It's easy for us to live in such a way that we always want things to be “fair.” And when we perceive that another receives more than us, we can get angry and bitter. But asking whether or not this is fair is not the right question. When it comes to the mercy of God, God's generosity and goodness far exceed what is perceived as fair. And if we are to share in the abundant mercy of God, we too must learn to rejoice in His superabundant mercy.In this story, the act of mercy given to his wayward son was exactly what that son needed. He needed to know that no matter what he had done in the past, his father loved him and rejoiced in his return. Therefore, this son needed an abundance of mercy, partly to reassure him of his father's love. He needed this extra consolation so as to become convinced that he made the right choice in returning.The other son, the one who had remained faithful throughout the years, was not treated unfairly. Rather, his discontent came from the fact that he himself lacked the same abundant mercy present in the heart of his father. He failed to love his brother to the same extent and, therefore, failed to see the need to offer this consolation to his brother as a way of helping him understand he was forgiven and welcomed back. Mercy is very demanding and far exceeds what we may at first perceive as rational and just. But if we desire to receive mercy in abundance, we must be ready and willing to offer it to those who need it the most. Reflect, today, upon how merciful and generous you are willing to be, especially toward those who do not appear to deserve it. Remind yourself that the life of grace is not about being fair; it's about being generous to a shocking extent. Commit yourself to this depth of generosity toward all and look for ways that you can console another's heart with the mercy of God. If you do, that generous love will also bless your heart in abundance. My most generous Lord, You are compassionate beyond what I can fathom. Your mercy and goodness far exceed what any of us deserve. Help me to be eternally grateful for Your goodness and help me to offer that same depth of mercy to those in most need. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Luca Giordano, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsSource of content: catholic-daily-reflections.comCopyright © 2025 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. Used with permission via RSS feed.