Thomas Merton: The Contemplative Life

Abstract

The purpose of- this honors thesis is to show, through the writings of Thomas Merton, that the contemplative life is not only available to people living in the secular world but it is necessary for one. It is necessary from the view point of being able to be critically immersed in living in the world. The contemplative life, by the gift of God, can bring us to a deeper awareness of God, of ourselves, and of others. It enriches one by bringing one to a gentleness with which to love God’s creations.