I didn’t know until yesterday that Gerald G. May of the Shalem Institute died in 2005.
May wrote on contemplative prayer and psychology. His best are Will and Spirit (which will stretch you if mysticism is new) and Addiction and Grace. The latter is about “attachment” and grace, but the marketng department of his publisher thought “addiction” would attract more attention.
I haven’t read yet his book on the Dark Night of the Soul, on suffering. (Don’t have the title exact.) But I soon will.
His books helped me a lot when I did my major research project at VIPCare.
I’m always fascinated by the interface of psychology and contemplation.
Anyway: here’s to you, Jerry. As you dwell in unveiled light of the One you loved so well in this life, may you be joy. And I hope you’re still writing.
Photo by Mary Fran
Dr. May was a new and very exciting discovery for me.. was checking our library for “Dark Night of the Soul” by John of the cross and found Dr. May. The book is so beautiful and subtle and profound in its truth and clarity of revelation. Knowing he was ill from the jacket cover, I just now, finally looked him up and found your post. I love what you said……….”Anyway: here’s to you, Jerry. As you dwell in unveiled light of the One you loved so well in this life, may you be joy. And I hope you’re still writing.” Such an uplifting and wonderful statement. Grateful. I am definitely going to read his other books.
Addiction & Grace just found me, and I am riveted. Beautiful, profound writing consistently brings me to tears and laughter. Your thoughts and words are profoundly changing me, Dr. May. Thank you.
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