Attentiveness Quote by David G. Benner
““Paying attention is being open and awake - ready to be seized by whatever is present to us in the present moment. This is why it is a foundation of prayer. Attentiveness is prayer because attention paid to anything is a doorway to the self-transcendent. It moves us beyond our self-preoccupations and opens us to that which is beyond our self. Regardless of how insignificant the object may seem, being truly aware of anything has enormous potential to aid our spiritual awakening. Prayerful attentiveness is not, therefore, reducible to thinking about God.””
About This Quote
Source Book: “The Gift of Being: Spirituality in the Everyday” by David G. Benner, 2008
Attentiveness opens a doorway to transcendence, making prayer a state of deep awareness beyond self‑focus.
In simple terms: Attention opens spiritual doorway
Key Takeaway
Practice mindful attention for spiritual growth
Themes
spirituality
mindfulness
prayer
Mood
calm
inquisitive
Type
philosophical
practical
When to use this quote
- meditation
- daily routines
- therapy sessions
- creative work
Key Concepts
self‑transcendence
presence
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you cultivate attentive awareness?
- In what ways does attention transform ordinary moments?
A Different Perspective
Attention alone is not enough without intention.
