The Tao is universal. Its words “are to be hung like bells in our hearts and rung by the motions we make as we move through our daily lives.” Here Tolbert McCarroll presents it in a unique version. For the contemporary audience, he offers concepts that bridge the Tao to Western mystics, and his language includes both the male and the female experience. Who wrote The Tao? Long ago, some Chinese followers of The Tao put onto bamboo strips the learnings of their life. Here, these people are c...

"Violet Seekers" is an inspiring and uplifting collection of 49 reflections – divided into common seasons in both nature and human experience. Written by Brother Tolbert McCarroll of Northern California's Starcross Monastic Community, this treasure of spiritual reflections will help you navigate life and all of its wonderful adventures. In 2011, as Brother Tolbert McCarroll turned 80, it was becoming difficult for him to travel to offer help or see friends. Brother Toby's two longtime spir...

In an era of intensified partisan divides, our ability to find common ground has been dissipating. Yet one remaining area of common ground is the need for periods of stillness, contemplation, and quiet reflection. These still moments, abundantly offered within "Stepping Stones", allow us to disconnect from the distractions of daily life and encounter a sense of unity and togetherness. Each of Brother Toby's "Stepping Stones" is a much-needed dose of inner nourishment for his readers, gentl...

How do we have confidence in our ability to deal with each experience we encounter? Where will we find the strength to follow our personal spiritual compass? Can we look at doubt as a tool for leading us to new understandings? Brother Toby uses the themes of Great Faith, Great Courage, and Holy Doubt as he takes on these questions. THREE GIFTS provides the self-reflection needed to reach an understanding of the self that we truly are.

Few storytellers can capture the sense of the sacred as Brother Toby can. Along with stories from his rich personal history, A Winter Walk takes readers on a journey through the symbols and festivals of different teachings, enhancing our appreciation of such celebratory subjects as the Advent Wreath, Bodhi Day, Chanukah, Ramadan, Santa Lucia, and Epiphany. Especially during the dark, cold nights of winter, this remarkable monk demonstrates that hope and delight may exist where we least exp...