This brief volume is part of the Henri Nouwen Spirituality Project developed in a partnership between the Henri Nouwen Society and Upper Room Ministries. The series editor is John Mogabgab and the preface is by Nathan Ball.

Henri Nouwen wrote: "A spiritual life without discipline is impossible." As a follower of Jesus, he sought to incarnate solitude, community, and compassionate service to others. Living daily by these lights, we create a "space in which God can act and speak."

Solitude begins in silence, comes to life in deep listening, and leads eventually to community. Within the discipline of community, we can put into action forgiveness, celebration, and healing.

In ministry we are called to "full immersion in the condition of being human." That means doing whatever it takes to live fruitful lives that radiate joy and meaning. Or as Nouwen puts it concretely:

"Fruitfulness in the spiritual life is about love."