Many equate it to prayer or meditation. You might be surprised, however, to discover that you can practice contemplation while mindfully washing dishes, singing, being with a friend, or walking in a park.
Contemplation is simply being fully present—in heart, mind, and body—to “what is” in a way that allows you to creatively respond and work toward “what could be.”
Contemplation is both personal and communal, internal and external. It helps us let go of our usual, egoic way of thinking and doing things so that our compassionate, connected, and creative self can emerge.
FR RICHARD ROHR Franciscan Monk Founder, Center for Contemplation and Action