Chapter 1: Introduction to Ed Cyzewski's Work

In this review, I delve into Ed Cyzewski's thought-provoking book, Pray, Write, Grow: Cultivating Prayer and Writing Together.

This post originally appeared on my previous website, SharonOutlawHillam.com, dated June 29, 2022.

During my morning stroll, I found myself reflecting on a creative word exercise shared in another book I read years ago, Word Hero by Jay Heinrichs. This exercise involved crafting a six-word summary of your favorite film. For instance, one memorable example was: "Clooney robs Vegas. Ten guys help."

Not long before I stumbled upon this exercise, I had watched Schindler's List with David. I challenged myself to encapsulate that profound film in just six words. After some contemplation, I settled on: "German businessman saves Jews from Holocaust."

If you've ever engaged in conversation with me, you know I tend to elaborate. Summarizing a film in six words is no small feat for someone who thrives on detail. Likewise, succinctly summarizing Pray, Write, Grow posed a similar challenge. However, I turned to God for guidance during my walk and soon found clarity. To my surprise, I quickly crafted this phrase: "Contemplative shares prayer and writing journey."

While I certainly don't have to limit myself to six words in this review, I can expand that thought slightly to convey a fuller picture: "Contemplative Episcopalian shares prayer and writing journey that led to growth, freedom, and healing."

In just 14 words, I’ve captured the essence of this insightful book.

Chapter 2: Understanding Ed Cyzewski

So, how did I arrive at the term "contemplative" to describe Ed Cyzewski? It’s the label he uses on his own website: edcyzewski.com. Before diving into Pray, Write, Grow, I was unfamiliar with him. After conducting a bit of research, I discovered he has authored 15 books and has been actively blogging since 2006. His writings have appeared in reputable outlets such as The Theology of Work Project, Christian Today, Leadership Journal, Patheos, and Christianity Today.

Yet, there’s more to Ed than just his extensive bibliography. While quantity matters, the quality of his work has secured him a spot on my list of favorite Christian authors.

Initially, I approached Pray, Write, Grow with caution. His writing style was different from what I typically encountered in Christian literature. I was also uncertain about his recommendation of the Examen—a reflective practice that enhances prayer and fosters a closer relationship with God.

However, my curiosity kept me engaged, and I was grateful for it. Not only did I find inspiration and challenge as a writer, but my perspective as a Christian also expanded as I recognized Ed’s deep love for God and humanity, despite our differing evangelical backgrounds.

I realized how much I would have missed if I had dismissed him based on my initial assumptions.

Chapter 3: Key Insights from the Book

For a glimpse into the caliber of Ed’s writing, I recommend reading his inaugural blog post from January 2006, titled Someone Bigger Than Ourselves, where he shares how the miraculous nature of God reshaped his faith and worldview.

If you're curious about the book, you can check out the preview on Amazon, which includes the first 16 pages, along with numerous reviews on Goodreads. Here’s my perspective:

Are you a Christian writer seeking to enhance your craft? If so, I highly endorse this book—it’s directed at you. Conversely, if you’re looking for guidance in your prayer life but don’t identify as a writer, you’ll still find valuable insights within these pages.

The title Pray, Write, Grow emphasizes the importance of that third element—GROW. For me, this aspect proved to be the most enriching. Ed doesn’t just share his wisdom on writing and prayer; he openly narrates his own experiences that have led to personal growth, clarity, and liberation from the anxiety and anger he battled throughout his life.

He states, “There isn’t a flow chart or a how-to system to this. I can’t tell you if you’re ‘doing it right.’ It’s a gradual process of growth.” This notion of cultivation resonates deeply, which is why the subtitle, Cultivating Prayer and Writing Together, holds significant meaning.

As a Christian blogger, my most crucial takeaway was the realization that if a particular struggle is weighing on me, it’s likely affecting others as well. By sharing our journeys, we can connect with and support those facing similar challenges.

Ed embodies this philosophy in his book, inspiring me to do the same. If you’re a writer and choose to read this book, chances are you’ll feel the same passion ignited within you.

Chapter 4: Conclusion and Invitation

I hope this review not only enlightens you about the book’s contents but also encourages you to explore it for yourself.

The paperback edition, published on February 28, 2015, is currently available on Amazon for $7.99, while the Kindle version, released on March 11, 2015, is priced at $1.99 (or free through Kindle Unlimited).

If you have any queries about the book or its themes, feel free to leave a comment. I’m here to help!

Thank you, and happy reading!