We are surrounded by irritants and triggers that fracture our attention; along with information overload, we are overwhelmed with pings, lights, and other technological spears that goad us to pay them mind. This is a serious challenge for the life of the spirit, which demands focus and kavvana. A new book about Christian monks in late Antiquity and medieval times argues that these hermits and seekers were obsessed with the issue of distraction. Ariel Evan Mayse demands we pay attention, to this new book, “The Wandering Mind,” and helps us focus on parallel teachings in our own tradition, from Hasidism and mysticism, that may help our minds wonder more and wander less.