Drawing on the wisdom of saints and mystics, as well as those who suffer and in particular those who have lived through a near-death experience, Rohr presents a remarkable pattern found in all faiths. Something has to die to unleash the transformative power in all things. Christians call this the paschal mystery. Buddhists, Catholics and others say that for true conversion we have to die to our desires.

Rohr cites research indicating that survivors of near-death are transformed. They exhibit an ability to live in the present filled with a wonder and gratitude. In common with those who have had a near-death experience, holy people of various faith backgrounds insist that 'something had to die' before they were empowered to make positive life changes. Authentic religion is an invitation to conversion, Rohr says, and that cannot happen without surrender.