In Praise of the Useless Life: A Monk's Memoir

Monastic life and its counter-cultural wisdom come alive in the stories and lessons of Br. Paul Quenon, O.C.S.O., during his more than five decades as a Trappist at the Abbey of Gethsemani.  In Praise of the Useless Life includes Quenon's quiet reflections on what it means to live each day with careful attentiveness.

Inspired by his novice master Thomas Merton, the poet and photographer's stories remind us that the beauty of life can best be seen in the "uselessness" of daily life – having a quiet chat with a friend, spending time in contemplation – in our vocations, and in the memories we make along the way.