A new book by Tish Harrison Warren explores how ancient spiritual practices can help modern individuals combat feelings of spiritual exhaustion and disconnection.
Tish Harrison Warren, an ordained priest in the Anglican Church in North America and a prominent voice in contemporary Christian thought, has recently published her fifth book, titled “What Grows in Weary Lands,” which was released on May 12, 2023. In this work, Warren candidly addresses the issue of spiritual burnout, a phenomenon that resonates with many in today’s fast-paced, digitally driven society.
Warren’s journey through spiritual fatigue began despite her seemingly fulfilling life, which included a beloved ministry position, a supportive family, and a writing role with The New York Times. Yet, as she openly shares, she found herself grappling with a sense of exhaustion and a feeling of distance from God. “I would sit to pray, but it felt as though the line had gone dead. I did not feel a sense of God’s nearness. I didn’t feel much of anything at all,” she wrote.
Seeking Guidance from the Desert Fathers
In her quest for spiritual renewal, Warren turned to the teachings of the desert fathers and mothers—early Christian hermits and ascetics who sought solitude in the deserts of Egypt and Palestine over 1,500 years ago. Their insights profoundly influenced her approach to spirituality, emphasizing the importance of long-term practices over fleeting experiences. Warren encapsulates their wisdom with the advice: “Do all the boring stuff for a really long time.” This perspective is a stark contrast to the quick-fix solutions often found in modern spirituality.
One of the pivotal steps in her journey involved stepping away from social media, particularly from X, previously known as Twitter. Despite her initial enjoyment of the platform’s interactive nature, she recognized it was detrimental to her mental and spiritual well-being. “I feel like my brain was being rewired in a way by social media that really wasn’t good for me,” Warren reflected. After an intervention from friends who highlighted the need for better energy management, she relinquished her social media credentials, allowing her to focus more on her immediate surroundings and relationships.
The Importance of Community
Warren’s experience illustrates a broader theme in her book: the balance between solitude and community. While the desert monks sought isolation, their lives were also intertwined with communal support and shared struggles, a philosophy that Warren believes is essential today. She argues that despite the flaws inherent in organized religion, community remains a vital aspect of spiritual life. “Otherwise, we have nothing but our personal spiritual brands. And I think that is really bad,” she stated, emphasizing the necessity of communal faith practices.
Warren’s reflections extend beyond mere personal anecdotes; they serve as a commentary on the state of faith in contemporary society. She acknowledges that while spiritual highs from worship experiences can be fulfilling, they do not provide a sustainable foundation for faith. Instead, she advocates for developing consistent spiritual habits, such as prayer and scripture study, as a means to build resilience during challenging times.
A Life of Balance and Resilience
Currently, Warren balances her roles as a mother of three, an assisting priest at Immanuel Anglican Church in Austin, Texas, and an author. Her writing journey began over a decade ago during her time in campus ministry, where she faced conflicts surrounding the Christian identity of student organizations. This led to her eventual transition into writing, culminating in her two-year tenure at The New York Times.
Throughout her career, Warren has emphasized the importance of hard work and spiritual practices, while also acknowledging the inherent unpredictability of spiritual peace. “Sometimes, God is silent and times are hard, no matter what you do. But these spiritual habits can help people build resilience in weary times,” she noted. Her approach reflects a mature understanding of the complexities of faith, particularly in the face of modern challenges.
As she continues to explore the intersection of faith and everyday life, Warren encourages readers to embrace both the struggles and the gifts of their spiritual journeys. “It’s all been a gift,” she concludes, highlighting the grace that accompanies her ongoing exploration of spirituality.
Warren’s insights and experiences provide a compelling narrative for anyone navigating the complexities of modern spirituality. Her book not only offers a pathway through spiritual fatigue but also serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in an increasingly chaotic world.
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