How to Live

"A timely book for troubled times, showing how the values and practices established by St. Benedict in the 6th century can help us lead happier lives." —Kathleen Norris, author of The Cloister Walk

Written in the sixth century as a guide for monks on how to live communally, The Rule of St. Benedict remains a timeless treasure trove of human wisdom. It arose from an era much like our own—when a great civilization was threatened by violence, economic forces that favored the wealthy, political leaders that lacked the trust of the public, and rampant xenophobia.


Once again, we live in a time when societies need to stress community over competition, consensus over conflict, simplicity over self-gain, and silence over the constant chatter and distractions of our lives. In How to Live, Judith Valente explores the key elements of The Rule of St. Benedict and clearly demonstrates how incorporating this ancient wisdom into our modern lives can open a way forward from the divisions gripping our country.