True Self, False Self

By: Richard Rohr O.F.M.

Narrated by: Richard Rohr O.F.M.

Franciscan priest Richard Rohr feels that there is no more challenging spiritual issue than the “problem of the self". Most of contemporary spiritual teaching, he believes, is still trying to inspire and fortify the private self, the autonomous "I". Even much church work is trying to evangelize and sacramentalize what many would call "the false self". Basic transformation is not expected, but merely a new set of beliefs and practices or loyal membership in a new group. This only confirms the disguise of the ego, but does not truly offer a "new creation". Both the individual and society remain largely unchanged.

Rohr suggests that until the false assumptions of Western individualism are clearly faced and experienced by religious believers (and they are the only ones fully prepared to face it), there will be no real breakthroughs for Christianity or any religion.

He makes reference to the work of Ken Wilber, Thomas Merton, Eckhart Tolle, the mystical tradition especially of Julian of Norwich, and the new paradigms offered by quantum physics. In a presentation that embraces the challenge, inspiration, and the genuine hope that is offered by the Gospel of Jesus, Rohr illustrates the implications of transformation both for individuals and for society at large.

©2003 Center for Action and Contemplation (P)2003 St. Anthony Messenger Press

Awesome

Enjoyed this so much insight and truth
It was presented in such a way that is helpful

amazing insight into a better way of living

Father Rohr provides a whole new perspective for life. His lectures are friendly, I never feel talked down to.

Excellent teaching on inner spiritual work

If you want to know more about the mystical inner work from a Christian point of view then this is the one to listen to. Great lecture for beginners who want not only a great overview but also to go deeper in the spiritual life that is beyond religion.

Incredible

Probably the first book I have read that makes sense of so many questions about life in general and also about religion or Christianity in particular. A must read for the enquiring mind.

A wonderful way of love

loving myself through loving others and finding God inside of me. A beautiful look at my relationship with God

Absolutely Life Changing!

Thank you Father Rohr for this amazing work you have so lovingly and generously shared with those of us trying to understand on a very deep level the beauty of our true self and the gifts it holds for our spiritual development when we live our lives from that place that is inside of each and everyone of us.

Awesome….

If you’ve never considered the idea os the false self..and the true self….and the clarity that the new considerations can bring…..then this is your set of lectures…..just awesome

fascinating teachings

listening to it once isn't enough. there is so much to sit with, to feel through, to really understand to the level of the marrow of my bones. first listen is purely intellectual, subsequent times are more subtle. so grateful for this work. 🙏

An expanded view of reality

Richard's revelation about the two parts of the self is so well explained. It is a treat.

Both a foundation and an extension of Rohr's theology

Not really a "book" so much as a series of recorded lectures, this text still holds together conceptually by Rohr's awareness of his audience's needs. In fact the advantage of hearing his voice is augmented by the pace and process as he "reads" his audience, and adjusts. This lends to a sense of authenticity, blending substantial preparation with a spontaneous "think aloud." Ultimately makes the "listening to a book" experience even better.