Ignatius tells us that his Second Rules treat a "greater discernment of spirits" than the First Rules. This book seeks clarity in an area where clarity is often elusive. Its focus is the concrete application of the Second Rules in spiritual direction, and to assist spiritual directors in such refined discernment. 

The Second rules are illustrated for the reader through an example. "Kathy", a spiritually mature person, faces the situation Ignatius envisaged in his Second Rules. Throughout the book, the reader is her director. 

This book is intended to serve both those who offer spiritual direction and those learning to be spiritual directors. To the first, it provides a review and firmer grasp of the Second Rules in practice; to the second, a foundation on which experience will build.