Between Monks and Trumps

Between Monks and Trumps July 22, 2016

Restored 12th century Chapel, New Clairvaux Abbey, Vina, CA.
Restored 12th century Chapel, New Clairvaux Abbey, Vina, CA. Not the kind Donald Trump wants to build…

This week I was feverishly trying to finish transcribing the nearly fifty interviews I conducted with Benedictine and Trappist monks from four monasteries in California, Oregon and New Mexico. The work is surprisingly draining and it makes my fingers ache, but hearing and reflecting on the soft voices and practical wisdom of these contemplative men again has been very rewarding.

This week also happened to be the Republican National Convention, which, after some controversy on the convention floor the first day, officially nominated billionaire Donald J. Trump to the Republican ticket.

Throughout the the week I have been flipping between transcribing interviews and the convention. The contrast could not be more stark; in many ways it feels like dunking between pools of hot and cold water.


Browse Our Archives