102. The Eloquence of Silence w/ Thomas Moore

Do you ever feel overburdened by the busyness our modern lives require? Do you practice creating spaciousness, emptiness in your daily life? Have you ever tasted profound freedom in a moment of aimless being? Join us for a profound conversation with the esteemed Thomas Moore, a true elder in a world crowded with older men but lacking in genuine wisdom. Known for his acclaimed work (and NYT Bestseller) “Care of the Soul,” Thomas Moore’s new book “The Eloquence of Silence” delves into the surprising wisdom found within tales of emptiness. At 82 years of age, Thomas’s life journey has encompassed roles as a Catholic monk, accomplished musician, university professor, and psychotherapist, deeply influenced by figures like Carl Jung and James Hillman. His work bridges spirituality, mythology, and depth psychology, highlighting the significance of imagery and imagination in the arts. In a world that often shies away from emptiness, Thomas Moore presents a compelling case for embracing peace as a way to navigate life’s later stages. “The Eloquence of Silence” delves into traditional stories and ideas surrounding emptiness, shedding light on the value of silence, empty space, and the art of letting go. Our conversation with this wise and gentle elder promises to be deeply enriching, offering insights that can create a meaningful difference in your life. Tune in to explore the profound depths of emptiness and its role in connecting with our daily existence. You’re sure to enjoy and find great value in this exchange with a true luminary in the field. HIGHLIGHTS (06:37) – Thomas discusses his career and his initial groundbreaking book “Care of the Soul.” Bryan read the book at 18 but didn’t fully grasp its depth. Thomas chronicles his path to becoming a New York Times best-selling author, a professor, and a psychotherapist. (08:22) –  Thomas recounted a pivotal moment from his youth that shaped his profound journey. During his early years, he used to go fishing with his grandfather every Sunday, fostering a special bond. One day, while they were on a big lake, an unexpected incident occurred. The boat began taking in water, and though his grandfather saved Thomas, he tragically lost his own life in the process. This experience left an indelible mark on Thomas, making him keenly aware of life’s delicate balance with mortality. This early encounter with death served as a sobering reminder. At the age of 13, Thomas embarked on a transformative path, leaving home to pursue his aspiration of becoming a Catholic priest. (11:49) –  Thomas’ journey to become a Catholic priest began at the age of 13, immersing him in a lifestyle closely resembling that of a monk. The environment at the school he attended was reminiscent of monastic life, with about 70% of its aspects reflecting the disciplined existence of a monk. Throughout this period, Thomas faced and overcome various challenges, which contributed to shaping his path towards priesthood. (14:15) – In the context of Thomas’s journey, his father played a distinct role. While Thomas acknowledged that his father wasn’t as resilient as his mother, his father remained a steadfast pillar of support during crucial junctures, particularly when Thomas joined the Catholic school. Despite some reservations, Thomas’s father consistently backed his decisions and provided unwavering encouragement throughout his endeavours.