These stories are alive with God! Published long before the "Chicken Soup For The Soul" series, "Not Without Parables" far surpasses it with profoundly REAL stories that touch not just surface emotions -- but penetrate deeply the depths of one's heart and soul... A magic fireside of symbol and myth, of fantasy and stark reality. This book is not for Christians only. It is for every seeker who hasnt forgotten how to cry tears of joy or sadness. Who hasnt forgotten how to listen to a good story, especially a timeless love story. In Part I of this extraordinary collection, Catherine brings us around the fireside of her childhood home in the Russia of old, where she sat wide-eyed at the feet of holy pilgrims who had knocked on her parents door asking for food and shelter on their way to and from shrines. In Part II she takes us through the Blue Door of Madonna House into an inspiring world of ordinary miracles, peopled by such famous figures as Dorothy Day, Peter Maurin, Thomas Merton. Yet its true heroes are unforgettable people who perhaps never found fame, but found glory. The German Jew, the communist, the homeless men who became priests, the prostitute who discovered herself kneeling at Jesus feet, and more. In Part III we find out how things get better, as Lady Avarice grows Bountiful, Pity turns to Love, Sorrow becomes Joy, Pride becomes Humble, and Prudence becomes gloriously Imprudent. Look with new eyes at the people and events we encounter each day! - from Amzon