Short description
* Available now for the first time in 30 years, an eloquent classic from Parker Palmer on contradiction, paradox, and the life of the spirit. * Introduction by Henri Nouwen, one of the greatest spiritual teachers of the twentieth century.
Long description
First published in 1980-and reissued here with a feisty new introductory essay-The Promise of Paradox launched Parker J. Palmer's career as an author and his ongoing exploration of the contradictions that vex and enrich our lives. In this probing and heartfelt book, the distinguished writer, teacher, and activist examines some of the challenging questions at the core of Christian spirituality. How do we live with the apparent opposition between good and evil, scarcity and abundance, individuality and community, death and new life? We can hold them as paradoxes, not either/ors, allowing them to open our minds and hearts to new ways of seeing and being.
Review
Palmer argues that the promise of paradox rests on a single overriding principle: accepting paradox with humility. That is the mortar that binds the very diverse pieces of this book together. And it is that very idea that makes the book worth reading. - Congregations, 2009
Table of contents
- Gratitudes. Introduction to the 1980 Edition (Henri J. M. Nouwen). Introduction to the 2008 Edition (Parker J. Palmer). I In the Belly of a Paradox. II The Stations of the Cross. III Paradoxes of Community. IV A Place Called Community. V A World of Scarcity, a Gospel of Abundance. VI The Conversion of Knowledge. Notes. The Author.