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It‘s said that MLK Jr. was inspired by Thurman‘s work & often carried a copy of this book with him. Published in 1949, Thurman‘s insightful wisdom is (unfortunately) still fresh & relevant today. Thurman discusses how hatred destroys both the oppressor & the disinherited—and offers Jesus and the truth of the Gospel as an example to follow, in love and in resistance. It was the second time I‘ve read this, and I got even more out of it this time.

Such an important work. I think even the non Christian should read this as it is more about our history with racism and the realities of the underprivileged more so than living a distinctly Christian life.

An incredibly powerful book (CW: it‘s Christian, if you can‘t tell from the title) written in the late 40s by a Black theologian and activist. It‘s short but meaty, naming many ways in which Black people have “their backs against the wall,” what Jesus and the Bible say, and naming and deconstructing diverse responses and actions. Excellent resource for a short group study.
#Booked2021 #under150pages
#Nonfiction2021 #somethingaboutunity
#Christian

Dipping my toe into theology for the first time in a decade.

Anyone who permits another to determine the quality of his inner life gives into the hands of the other the keys to his destiny.
Howard Thurman

I was going to post more quotes, but it‘s a short book; find a copy and read it. In 5 short chapters and an epilogue Thurman outlines his position of love toward all, even those who are oppressing you. Clearly and logically he lays out potential responses to oppression, what the consequences of that reaction are to the oppressed, how Jesus lived those same situations, and how we can follow His example. This book was written, not for 👇🏻

And one that is more hope-filled.

Spamming your feed with more quotes, these from the chapter on Hate, which is all too relevant today.

I am highlighting so many quotes!

I put this on hold through Libby when my priest mentioned it and said Thurman was an influence on ML King. Thursday it said I‘d get it in 2 weeks. This morning, it was there and said “due in 18 days.” Guess I‘d better get reading!