'THE TEARS OF THINGS' BY FR RICHARD ROHR

Earlier this year, my favourite author, and renowned spiritual writer, Fr Richard Rohr, released his new book titled: The Tears of Things: Prophetic Wisdom for an Age of Outrage. To say that I had counted down the days until its release like a child that crosses off each date on their calendar leading up to their birthday would be a gross understatement!

The book is an examination of what wisdom can be learned and gleaned from the prophets in the Hebrew scriptures which be applied to our modern lives as we navigate tumultous socio-political landscapes.

In The Tears of Things, Rohr delves into the profound nature of suffering, the human condition, and the transformative power of embracing our vulnerability. With his trademark contemplative approach, Rohr challenges us to look at our lives with eyes open to the deeper truths that often lie beneath the surface of our experiences.

Rohr’s central thesis is that suffering is not an aberration, but an integral part of the spiritual journey. He invites readers to reconsider the way we view pain and loss—not as something to be avoided, but as an opportunity for deeper transformation. Through the lens of Catholic theology and mystical spirituality, Rohr reflects on how our tears, whether literal or metaphorical, can be vehicles for grace and healing. The title itself, The Tears of Things, evokes the idea that everything in creation is imbued with a divine, though often hidden, meaning.

What sets Rohr apart in this work is his ability to weave together various spiritual traditions, from the contemplative practices of Christian mysticism to Eastern philosophies, creating a unified understanding of suffering and joy. His reflections on the intersection of spirituality and the human experience encourage readers to embrace paradox and live with a sense of sacredness in every moment, especially in moments of hardship.

The book is both a call to deeper self-awareness and an invitation to embrace the complexity of life. Rohr’s writing is accessible yet deeply thought-provoking, filled with insights that invite us to question our assumptions about life, suffering, and God’s presence in our world.

For parents within our St Thomas More’s community, The Tears of Things offers valuable wisdom. Rohr encourages us to embrace life’s challenges as part of a larger, divine narrative; one that holds both sorrow and joy together. As we navigate the complexities of parenting, teaching, and leading, Rohr’s reflections offer a reminder to be present with both our children and ourselves in moments of discomfort and difficulty. This book calls us to cultivate empathy and spiritual depth, teaching our children that it’s not only okay to experience pain but that in these moments, we can grow in compassion, faith, and resilience.

In a world that often seeks to shield us from vulnerability, Rohr reminds us that embracing our tears, whether our own or those of others, can lead to a fuller, more meaningful life. Parents, let us support our children in cultivating this mindset, helping them to see the divine potential in every experience, both joyous and challenging.

Mr Casimir Douglas

Monday 2nd June, 2025