Every moment is a potential opportunity for contemplation, and a multitude of practices are potential steps forward into the contemplative ocean. It is perhaps the most daunting aspect of trying to suggest “contemplative practices,” that God permeates and can thus be really and truly encountered in every aspect of living. Those practices that are most commonly suggested to facilitate a disposition for contemplation – like sustained silence, chanting, Lectio Divina, nature walks, etc. – are well-traveled roads along which many contemplative practitioners have been drawn into a deep awareness of Divine Presence, and so these paths are offered to others seeking such awareness. However, God is nothing if not a God of surprises, and so we must never discount “roads less traveled,” either. If a practice draws one into Divine Love, Mercy, and Compassion and leads to one manifesting the same Love, Mercy, and Compassion, it is worth pursuing. For the same reason, we must never become so wed to our preferred forms of contemplative practice that we miss God’s Presence in places and practices we explore less often. Silence is ideal for cultivation contemplation, yet God is no less present or available in the midst of a crowded parade. Polyphonic chant is wonderful, but God is also manifested in the loud acclamation of a gospel choir. Every moment is a contemplative moment for those who stay open and aware!