By: Tytianna N.M. Wells Smith
During this session, Br. Paul Quenon focused on the sound of silence using technology and scripture. In his emphasis on “quiet time,” Br. Paul Quenon addressed the ways in which meditation can bring forth spiritual enlightenment.
Br. Paul Quenon provided a video clip that offered an authentic view into a Monk’s daily spiritual practice that is similar in a number of ways to the Christian church service that I attend. The video captured the Monk’s singing and praying using a hymn book. As I watched the video, I was amazed to find Monks who represented various racial identities and cultures that included a man of African descent. For as long as I can remember, I have always imagined Monks as either Asian or White (European and/or American). This might be due to motion picture films, the media or other images that widely circulate to increase cultural stereotypes. However, this window into the diverse community of Monks helped me to dispel this cultural myth within myself. I appreciate this new insight that has now encouraged me to learn more about the lifestyle of Monks of various nationalities and cultures.
Not only was Br. Paul Quenon’s video presentation satisfactory in offering a true account of spiritual practices, but his introduction and interpretation of scripture was just as illuminating. For example, when he presented the scriptures Psalm 119-120, he explored the context of the readings with self-talk and meditation. During his personal interpretation of the scripture, he engaged the audience in a discussion of their understanding of the text. I thought this was an effective teaching strategy because he used his interpretation as an example for the audience to practice and discuss as a collective group. This discussion was a great reflection period for me because it allowed me to apply the scripture to both my personal and professional life. For example, Br. Paul Quenon’s interpretation of the scriptures reminded me to remain steadfast and appreciate the process of climbing a mountain no matter the struggle.
As I reflected on these two particular scriptures that are poems from the Bible, I meditated on a poem written by Poet Gwendolyn Brooks who wrote “Live not for the battles won. Live not for the end of the song. Live in the along.” This poem along with the biblical scriptures highlight the significance of enjoying the process or experience of climbing a mountain, opposed to only completing the task for the end result of reaching its highest peak. As Br. Paul Quenon continued to speak on both scriptures, I could not help but hear the soulful sounds of the church songs and hymns that filled the church sanctuary that I was raised in. It was invigorating to meditate on my love for the Lord who is the source and strength of my life.
During this session, Br. Paul Quenon focused on the sound of silence using technology and scripture. In his emphasis on “quiet time,” Br. Paul Quenon addressed the ways in which meditation can bring forth spiritual enlightenment.
Br. Paul Quenon provided a video clip that offered an authentic view into a Monk’s daily spiritual practice that is similar in a number of ways to the Christian church service that I attend. The video captured the Monk’s singing and praying using a hymn book. As I watched the video, I was amazed to find Monks who represented various racial identities and cultures that included a man of African descent. For as long as I can remember, I have always imagined Monks as either Asian or White (European and/or American). This might be due to motion picture films, the media or other images that widely circulate to increase cultural stereotypes. However, this window into the diverse community of Monks helped me to dispel this cultural myth within myself. I appreciate this new insight that has now encouraged me to learn more about the lifestyle of Monks of various nationalities and cultures.
Not only was Br. Paul Quenon’s video presentation satisfactory in offering a true account of spiritual practices, but his introduction and interpretation of scripture was just as illuminating. For example, when he presented the scriptures Psalm 119-120, he explored the context of the readings with self-talk and meditation. During his personal interpretation of the scripture, he engaged the audience in a discussion of their understanding of the text. I thought this was an effective teaching strategy because he used his interpretation as an example for the audience to practice and discuss as a collective group. This discussion was a great reflection period for me because it allowed me to apply the scripture to both my personal and professional life. For example, Br. Paul Quenon’s interpretation of the scriptures reminded me to remain steadfast and appreciate the process of climbing a mountain no matter the struggle.
As I reflected on these two particular scriptures that are poems from the Bible, I meditated on a poem written by Poet Gwendolyn Brooks who wrote “Live not for the battles won. Live not for the end of the song. Live in the along.” This poem along with the biblical scriptures highlight the significance of enjoying the process or experience of climbing a mountain, opposed to only completing the task for the end result of reaching its highest peak. As Br. Paul Quenon continued to speak on both scriptures, I could not help but hear the soulful sounds of the church songs and hymns that filled the church sanctuary that I was raised in. It was invigorating to meditate on my love for the Lord who is the source and strength of my life.
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