Customer Reviews

Becoming Human

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

wonderful book of a humanitarian's commitment to the most vulnerable of our society. It ask's oneself "how close can on come to emulate what this person has done?" It is a teaching tool to do better in our daily lives even if it is only a small part that may enable one "do what you can" within your sphere of influence. Well worth reading to make us better persons!

I came across this book after reading a footnote in one of Henri Nouwen's book. It first caught my attention in one of Neowen's passages. I was quite intrigued by Vanier's insight and remarks. Once reading Becoming Human I was again reminded of the sanctity of life. "We are simply human beings, enfolded in weakness and in hope, called together to change our world one heart at a time." (p.163)Vanier's insight into the human heart brings a chilling reminder that we are not a society of the strong and intelligent, that is just part of being human. Understanding our weaknesses and brokeness brings us to a fullness that God originaly intended for us.

Originally a series of radio broadcasts on the CBC, this delightful little book is a refresher course in being human. In a deceptively simple, meditative style, Jean Vanier shares the wisdom he has gained from years of helping disabled people at the L'Arche communities he founded. Vanier gently explores human frailty and dignity, our need for individual affirmation and loving community, issues of freedom and forgiveness, and the nature of true maturity.

Perhaps all disabled people (in the sense that includes all of us) can gain some insight and inspiration here.

As a young man, Jean Vanier founded the Larch Society. The Larch Society is a network of communities around the world where severly mentally and physically handicapped adults live together with other caring adults in small groups. Through his experiences living with these severly handicapped individuals, Vanier has asked and answered the question, what is the essence of being human. In this eloquently written, thoughtful and thought provoking book, Jean Vanier discussed what he feels truly determines humanity , what makes us more than just talking, intelligent animals. Although Vanier writes from a Christian perspective, this book is for anyone, of any religious or spiritual perspective or belief.