Chapter 3 Summary and Analysis

Lady Poverty: The Tradition

The ancient concept that man must discard all material belongings to truly tap the treasures that lie within has been missing from civilization for a lengthy period of time. For eons, from Tibet to Egypt, an idea of the simple and pure unencumbered life has been a goal of wise and spiritual man. Destitution is not the desired goal, rather it is one of "frugal plenty." Ego is seen as a non-productive luxury that stands in the way of one's true worth.

Every movement of humanity and justice is one that leads toward simplicity. Therefore, it is not St. Francis of Assisi who originates the idealization of a happy life divested of wealth and possessions although he lovingly dubs the concept "Lady Poverty." What Francis does is embody the poetry, spirit and strength of the concept. Francis...