October Road

I first read Story of a Soul as a freshman in college. I labored through it, and didn't understand most of what I was reading. I kept the book at school with me for the next two years, and during the fall of my senior year I picked it up again.

The second time around wasn't mundane or difficult. Instead, I was inspired, enthusiastic, and a thoroughly changed person. I carried it around with me, finished it and started right back up again, and re-read the same simple passages over and over again while contemplating their rich meaning.

I've since read many other fantastic spiritual books, but every October I return to one of the staples of my faith--Story of a Soul, the autobiography of St. Therese of Lisieux. It's a great preparation for the significant coming months--Advent in November, Christmas in December, and then Lent and Easter in the Spring. Then, at the end of every summer and the beginning of a new fall, Story of a Soul emerges again, each time revealing more than it had during the previous read.

Once October hits and I pick up my loved book again, I'll be happy to share some of those passages which have touched my life. Although, if you've read the manuscript, I'm preaching to the choir, but perhaps you'll pick up it again with me.