River Jordan

Confessions of a Christian Mystic
This book immediately blasted to the top tier of my permanent favorites, and I do not say this lightly or frequently. River Jordan has been a favorite author since I discovered her first book, and I love to recommend her blog and share information about her audio interviews of other authors.

I barely resisted highlighting, underlining, and writing reactions in the margins (which I never do!).

Every chapter led to a pause to reflect, dive into my own memories, or wipe away tears. Several included all of these reactions, so each was savored separately. It will be on my nightstand for a while (as was Praying with Strangers) for late-night treat s into a random chapter.
It is only January, but friends have already heard me mention that it will likely be my favorite book of 2019. It was uplifting, inspiring, and deeply meaningful. I believe it will have a positive impact on readers who are privileged to share River's warm and honest reflections of her personal journey.
… (mer)

I am not a formal/experienced reviewer, but this book has been on my mind so much since reading it in July that I must attempt to say how much it means to my heart. I have loved River Jordan's work since discovering her first novel (The Gin Girl); it and every book that followed has gone straight to my favorites list. There isn't another author who so frequently compels me to gasp, stop reading, and admire (and often jot down) her gift of language, a turn of phrase or a beautiful description. The most recent (Praying for Strangers /Confessions of a Christian Mystic) I've purchased as e-books also, just to be able to highlight passages. (They are also wonderful gifts, especially inspiring during this time of uncertainty.)

That said, I read The Ancient Way in one sitting for the travel story (nail-biting adventures) and then again to savor the language and the light from her soul that glows into the pages. I would not have had the courage to travel in the adventurous way she did, with the uncertainties of what each leg of the trip would present, but her spirit and courage was an inspiration. What memories she will enjoy the rest of her life, and the friends made along the way are priceless.

My realization of my own thin place was explained as I read of her passionate quest for the full experience of Iona. I am so appreciative of River for sharing her journey and for her perfect words describing such a meaningful place to her. My goal from a very young age was to visit Australia, and the reality a few years ago was delightful beyond expectations. But the very air of Uluru unexpectedly drew me into my own Dreamtime. I truly believe now that the magnetism of that sacred area was the core of my yearning.

Others have written better reviews of this book and I highly recommend them for more in-depth information, as I had such a personal reaction. My hope is that all who read it will be inspired to take a journey to find their own Thin Place.

I received an e-edition of this book, but have pre-ordered a print edition to add to my collection; notice the gorgeous cover! The bonus is having the Christmas list completed ...… (mer)

Bold, daring, and yes, confessional, River Jordan’s collection of personal essays warns you going into it that you’re in for something unique. After all, what is the art of writing, if not a venue to compare notes on this business of life? Only a master can make this plain through the power of fifty delightful stories. This is a writer who asks the big questions for us; who owns a steady faith base yet thinks outside the box. Confessions of a Christian Mystic is devout and dauntless. It is sonorous, beautiful, soul-deep, and fearless. And it is sardonically funny in its skirt-lifted vulnerability. The chapter titled, “Sometimes Good Girls Get Naked” is a case in point. With a deft hold on sentiment without being overly sentimental, I won’t cheapen this important book by suggesting it’s a page-turner—it is better. Confessions of a Christian Mystic is something to savor. You’ll want to pause and ponder at the end of each chapter.
I applaud every essay in this gorgeous gift of a book. River Jordan has woven vignettes of her personal narrative at such an engaging, introspective pitch that I defy every reader not to see themselves in its pages.… (mer)