Life of Contemplative Prayer
The Rule clearly states that the Secular Carmelite must strive for the fullness of the charism of Carmel; namely, for a life of contemplative prayer. But, you may ask, how do we define "contemplative prayer?" What is its distinctive features?
To give a general definition, prayer is the raising of the mind and heart to god. but the term "contemplative prayer" means a manner of prayer that is a simple attention to the loving presence of God in my life. Generally, a contemplative prayer is contrasted or compared with discursive prayer, in which I might be more concerned with and attentive to my own reasoning or feelings about God. Contemplative prayer is a direct form of going to Christ (God) and allowing Him to deal with me. It is directly related to the love of God that has been manifested to us in Christ. In contemplative prayer, words and discursive reasoning give way to a silent and peaceful awareness of God's presence and love.
(From A Commentary on the Rule of Life by Michael D. Griffin, OCD)
In Fr. Griffin's commentary, he states that we must strive for a life of contemplative prayer. This is important, because beginners may think that contemplative prayer is a "given" for 
those who have embraced Carmel. We must be clear that the gift of contemplation is just this: a gift. A precious gift from God. Those who possess it must truly be grateful to God and thank him profusely for this intimate life of prayer.
those who have embraced Carmel. We must be clear that the gift of contemplation is just this: a gift. A precious gift from God. Those who possess it must truly be grateful to God and thank him profusely for this intimate life of prayer. Like a rose, the life of prayer unfolds petal by petal, blossoming into contemplation,according to God's gifts for each soul.
We can ask the question, do I truly strive for this gift of contemplation? If I do have the gift of contemplation, am I seeking a still deeper union with the Lord? Am I desperate for an intimate relationship with the most Holy Trinity? Do I pray for the gift of contemplation? Do I pray for our local community, that we may all be given this precious gift and become a holy community of living witnesses of contemplative prayer in the world?
These are all questions we can ask when we choose other distractions and pastimes over more quiet time with the Lord. He is our first love. Do we give him the first and finest offering of our time? Or do we give him the left-overs-a few minutes at the end of the day, just to fulfill our obligation of a half hour of mental prayer.
Let us turn to our Carmelite saints for encouragement and inspiration. In our spiritual reading we can look to their lives for help. Life is so short...if we want to be saints, now is the time! Let us pray for each other.
Peace be with you!
Rosemarie, OCDS
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