Note: Richard Rohr has written much about the balance between action and contemplation, a common spiritual duality we all navigate. In fact, he is the founder of the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Many of these ideas are informed by his writing.

I have been thinking a lot about the balance between action and contemplation. I first learned of this precarious duality when I was in college (around 18 years ago) and it continues to be a dynamic push and pull in my life. Many of us struggle with contemplation, the practice of focusing inward using the many forms of self-reflection, prayer and meditation. We live in an impulsive and compulsive culture that values action versus reflection, so we are not given to this apparent inaction, but action without contemplation will be impulsive and misguided. Contemplation without action is equally unconstructive, however. Why do honest and deep reflection and then fail to act on the  knowledge gained?  A healthy life strikes a balance of action and contemplation.

Contemplation is a receptive exercise. It is listening and developing openness in ourselves to reach a deeper level of knowing.  It feels a bit like a move backwards, especially for those of us who tend to be action-oriented. No wonder there is a dearth of contemplation in our lives: we believe this inaction is lazy or fearful. On the contrary, contemplation takes effort and courage. It is an effortful move toward vulnerability and knowing our deepest selves. A start into contemplation is just being in solitude, eliminating as many distractions as possible and wandering around within ourselves. Journaling or just writing a few thoughts and feelings down could be helpful. When we do this, we will be bombarded with what we need to get done that day, but also our fears, compulsions, guilts, sorrows and shames. Don’t be afraid – these are the same things that are at the core of every soul.

It is equally dangerous to only contemplate without moving to action. All contemplation done effectively should move us to action. If you stick with contemplation, you will reach your inmost self and discover love, hope and peace. You probably will also discover a desire to do good and be creative. These are things to share. When you discover your deepest self, you will discover that is the part of you which longs to connect with other selves deeply. You will be able to have more fulfilling and generous relationships. Through contemplation, we gain courage and clarity about who we are and our direction. Then it is time to act.