BENEATH THE MASK OF HOLINESS

Thomas Merton, a prominent American Catholic author, is celebrated for his advocacy of the contemplative life. However, in 1966, he faced deep inner turmoil, grappling with feelings of loneliness, guilt, and past sins. Despite his reputation as a spiritual guide, Merton's struggles with personal relationships and an inability to fully understand love reveal a complex and troubled figure beneath his serene exterior. His journey reflects the tension between public persona and private despair, highlighting the challenges of spiritual growth.