I would go so far as to opine that if the only purpose for contemplative prayer is self-improvement, then it is not contemplative prayer at all but simply a trendy form of self-aggrandizement. On the other hand, I also believe that my daily times of contemplative prayer and readings are a positive and necessary contribution to peace, keep me more firmly rooted in that “great cloud of witnesses” who change the world, and greatly help me stay focused and energized for work with and for others.