my spiritual director told me "better to read something less harsh",but I have matured a lot and he has passed away from old age last year. Should I ask my current confessor for permission to undertake this book? Or is it better to read other spiritual guide :which? someone told me to read the "introduction to devout life" + the ignatian excercises. I want to thread carefully because as a teen I was obsessed with paranormal phenomena for its own sake( i never had anything happen, i just read those tabloids about it)
The one by Kempis? I don't think that's banned or anything so I have no idea why it would be a problem. I've found if I'm not really ready to read something that's approved it just seems boring as opposed to dangerous. I tried reading The City of God in high school and was like 'wow, this is boring'.
You are wise to exercise prudence I think. The Imitation of Christ is a spiritual classic and wonderful to pick up from time to time. Any name you wish is right about books you are not ready for. You won't like it or it will seem boring. Years ago when I discovered The Way of Divine Love I was swept away by its beauty and power and grace. I immediately got a copy for my sister. She hated it. It clearly wasn't for her.
