LP4 - Lessons from The Little Prince - Encountering Foreign Worlds with The Little Prince with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B.

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Lessons from The Little Prince – Encountering Foreign Worlds with The Little Prince with Fr. Mauritius Wilde O.S.B.

Fr. Mauritius Wilde and Kris McGregor explore the metaphor of isolated figures on different planets, relating it to human loneliness and the struggle to connect with others. They highlight the importance of friendship, emphasizing how true friendship arises from brokenness and vulnerability, as exemplified by the Little Prince leaving his planet.

Fr. Wilde reflects on the story’s spiritual principles, including the need to let go of attachments and embrace detachment, citing biblical references and the journey of the Little Prince as he meets various characters, such as the fox who teaches him about taming and creating ties. They discuss the significance of the desert in monastic spirituality, representing a place of solitude where one can truly encounter God, and draw parallels to life’s deserts, like personal crises, that open us to deeper relationships.

The conversation delves into the nature of true friendship, which requires time, presence, and selflessness. They discuss how authentic relationships are developed through patience, shared experiences, and mutual openness. Fr. Wilde concludes by relating these themes to Jesus’ example of friendship in the Gospels, and how Jesus’ presence and time spent with others transformed relationships and demonstrated divine friendship.

Discerning Hearts Reflection Questions:

Understanding Friendship: How do you define true friendship in the context of your faith?
Embracing Brokenness: How has experiencing personal brokenness affected your relationships?
The Role of Detachment: How can detachment from worldly things help us form deeper connections with others?
Lessons from the Desert: Have you experienced a “desert” moment in your life that led to spiritual growth?
Creating and Respecting Rituals: What rituals or practices do you have that strengthen your friendships?
Being Present: How does being present with someone differ from just spending time together?
Reflecting on Jesus’ Friendship: How did Jesus model true friendship during His time on earth?
The Fox’s Wisdom: What does the process of “taming” mean to you in the context of relationships?
Encountering God in Others: How do you recognize the presence of Christ in your friends and family?

One sees clearly only with the heart. Anything essential is invisible to the eyes.

The story of a stranded pilot, an extraordinary little boy, and their remarkable friendship, The Little Prince has become a cherished fable for generations of readers. As enchanting as it is wise, this beloved classic captures the mysteries of the heart and opens us to the meaning of life and the magic of love.

taken from the back an edition of the book no longer in print

Father Mauritius Wilde, OSB, Ph.D., did his philosophical, theological and doctoral studies in Europe. He is the author of several books and directs retreats regularly. He serves as Prior at Sant’Anselmo in Rome. For more information about the ministry of the Missionary Benedictines of Christ the King Priory in Schuyler, NE