"A unique invitation to see God in community and solitude, in prayer and action, in lay or monastic life. This book is grounded in solid study, both ancient and contemporary, as well as active personal pursuit of spiritual growth."American Benedictine Review "Mark Plaiss describes in detail the daily routine of a monastic's life. He explains, as well, how the monastic values and routine have influenced his own life, a married layman in the teaching profession. This book might be an invaluable resource for someone discerning a monastic vocation. All the pieces are there."Abbot Vincent Bataille, Marmion Abbey, Aurora, IL "I found that this book made me feel as though I had been able to share Plaiss's monastic experience. Monks and nuns may appreciate reading how their openness to retreatants can have deep and permanent effects on lay people. Those who wonder if spending time on monastic retreats is worth the countercultural disruption of their normal lives will gain valuable data for their discernment."Cistercian Studies Quarterly